Do diabetes nurse specialists utilise research evidence?

Abstract

AbstractSince their inception in the mid 1970s, the role of the diabetes nurse specialist (DNS) has become well established. However, their functions have not been clearly defined. This has resulted in the inclusion of a variety of activities in their job descriptions. While some of these are controversial, there is little dispute that a key component of the post is the evaluation, integration and (in some circumstances) the generation of research evidence. The purpose of this study was to explore the participation, attitudes, sources of support, and encouraging and discouraging factors experienced by DNSs in utilising research evidence. An associated study allowed comparison with a sample of non‐nurse specialists. Two hundred and ninety‐nine DNSs (response rate 72%) across seven of the eight regions of the National Health Service in England completed the questionnaire, and 133 nurses responded (response rate of 71 %) in the eighth region. The results suggest that DNSs are positive about utilising research evidence and more likely to be involved in research activities than non nurse specialists. However, unless issues around time and clinical workload are addressed, the potential of the DNS's role in promoting evidence‐based practice is unlikely to be fully realised.