Participating in research: the experience of a community nursing team
Why you should read this article:
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To acknowledge the importance of participating in community nursing-based research
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To be aware of the benefits and challenges of participating in research as a nurse working in the community
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To recognise that community nursing teams should be supported to participate in research
There is a policy focus in the NHS to provide care closer to people’s homes; despite that focus community nursing is an area of practice that is understudied. Research conducted in community nursing is required to produce an evidence base that can then be used to inform practice.
This article outlines the experience of a community nursing team participating in their first research study – a study designed to explore how the Support Needs Approach for Patients (SNAP) intervention can be used to support older people living at home. The benefits and challenges of participating in the research process are described, along with how some of the challenges can be overcome and why community-based nurses should be supported to engage in research.
