Research in nursing: concepts and processes

Abstract

This chapter introduces you to basic concepts and processes of research in nursing. Research has assumed a position of significance in Australian nursing, and there continues to be advances in knowledge development and the sophistication of research approaches (McKenna et al 2012). The concept of research in nursing is not new in the Western world (D'Antonio 1997, Mulhall 1995). In Britain, Florence Nightingale was active in research in nursing in the nineteenth century, though it was not until 1940 that further progress occurred and it was 1963 before the first government-funded post to facilitate research in nursing was established in the Ministry of Health (Mulhall 1995). Following initial government support for nursing research in the United States in the 1950s (D'Antonio 1997), specific research and education centres were established in universities by the 1970s. During this period, many universities had nursing degree courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level, as well as a significant number of nurse researchers with doctorates who were able to demonstrate research leadership for the profession.