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A comprehensive guide to writing a nursing research paper, rachel r.n..

• March 7, 2024
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Writing a nursing research paper is an essential skill for nursing students and professionals alike. It serves as a platform to contribute to the ever-expanding body of knowledge in the field, fostering evidence-based practice and promoting advancements in healthcare. This comprehensive guide aims to provide step-by-step instructions on how to craft a well-structured and impactful nursing research paper.

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The Research Process

Here are the steps to writing a research nursing paper

1. Choosing a Relevant Topic

Selecting a pertinent and engaging topic is the first crucial step in writing a nursing research paper. Consider the following factors when choosing a topic:

• Personal Interest : Opt for a subject that sparks your interest or relates to your clinical experiences. For example, if you have a passion for pediatric nursing, you might choose a topic related to childhood obesity interventions.
• Relevance : Ensure the topic addresses current issues or gaps in knowledge within the nursing field. This could involve exploring emerging healthcare technologies, examining disparities in healthcare access, or evaluating the effectiveness of nursing interventions in specific patient populations.
• Feasibility: Assess the availability of resources and data needed to conduct a thorough investigation. Consider factors such as access to patient populations , research facilities, and funding opportunities when evaluating the feasibility of your chosen topic.

2. Conducting a Literature Review:

Before delving into your research, it is essential to review existing literature to identify gaps and establish the context for your study.

• Utilize academic databases: Search platforms like PubMed, CINAHL, and others to gather relevant articles.
• Critically analyze literature: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of previous studies to identify areas for further exploration. Look for patterns, inconsistencies, or gaps in the existing research that your study can address.
• Synthesize findings: Summarize key themes, methodologies, and gaps in the literature to guide your research question. This synthesis serves as the foundation for framing the significance of your study within the broader context of nursing research.

3. Formulating a Clear Research Question or Hypothesis:

A well-defined research question or hypothesis provides direction for your study and guides the development of your nursing research paper.

Clarity and specificity: Clearly state the problem you aim to address and be specific in your research question or hypothesis. For instance, if your topic revolves around improving patient adherence to medication regimens, your research question might be, “What factors influence medication adherence among patients with chronic illnesses?”

Align with literature: Ensure your research question builds upon existing knowledge and addresses identified gaps. Reference the findings from your literature review to demonstrate the relevance of your study and its potential contributions to the field.

4. Designing the Research Methodology:

Selecting an appropriate research methodology is crucial to gather valid and reliable data. Consider methodologies such as:

a. Quantitative or qualitative: Decide whether your study will involve quantitative measurements, qualitative analysis, or a combination of both. If your research question involves exploring patient experiences, qualitative methods such as interviews or focus groups may be appropriate.

b. Sampling: Define your target population and choose a representative sample size. Consider factors like age, gender, and medical history that align with your research objectives.

c. Data collection: Outline the methods and tools you will use to collect data, ensuring they align with your research question. Whether it’s surveys, interviews, observations, or a review of medical records, justify your choices based on the nature of your study.

5. Ethical Considerations:

Nursing research must adhere to ethical standards to protect participants and maintain the integrity of the study.

Informed consent: Clearly explain the study to participants and obtain their informed consent. Clearly outline the purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits of participation.

Confidentiality: Ensure the privacy and anonymity of participants throughout the research process. Safeguarding their identities and sensitive information is crucial to maintain trust and ethical standards.

6. Data Analysis and Interpretation:

Once data collection is complete, analyze the information using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods. a. Statistical analysis: Use statistical software to analyze quantitative data and draw meaningful conclusions. b. Thematic analysis: Identify themes and patterns in qualitative data, providing rich insights into your research question.

7. Writing the Nursing Research Paper:

Structure your paper following the typical components of a scientific research paper.

In nursing research papers, we usually use APA or Harvard formats because they are scientific. The title page is super important because it helps your professor quickly understand your paper. If it’s not done well, you might lose marks. T he title page , also called the cover page, should have your paper’s title, your names, course code and name, university names, your professor’s name, and the date of submission. Check out our examples to see how to set up this important part of your research paper.

The abstract is a short summary of your nursing research paper. It’s important, just like the title page, because it gives readers a quick overview. Keep it short, around 200-250 words, and focus on the main points. Don’t use acronyms or citations. Follow the guidelines for APA or Harvard formatting. It doesn’t count in the word limit unless the Rubric says it does. Include the purpose, contents, results, conclusions, and recommendations.

Introduction

The introduction is the first part of your nursing research paper, taking up about 10% of the word count. Start with an interesting hook for your topic. Provide background information, talk about the nursing issue, and state the main aim or thesis. Clearly outline what your paper will cover, and if it’s a PICO research paper, introduce the PICOT question here.

Literature Review

This section explores what other nursing scholars have said about your thesis statement or topic. Look at various sources about nursing theory, frameworks, and concepts. Develop your paragraphs well, cite ideas, and approach this section critically. For example, if your paper is about managing obesity, you can discuss how the Theory of Planned Behavior is used in interventions. Show good research, organization, and writing skills.

Research Methodology

Here, explain the methods you used to collect data, like qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods approaches. For qualitative research in nursing, consider ethnography, historical research, phenomenology, symbiotic interactionism, or grounded theory. Quantitative research involves crunching numbers. If you used secondary sources, mention them and explain your inclusion/exclusion criteria. If it’s a statistical paper, detail your analyses and the tools used (like R or SPSS).

Results and Discussion

Present your findings in this section without making definitive statements. The results should suggest whether something is true or not, especially when testing hypotheses. Discuss your findings using concepts and information from your literature review. Mention any limitations and include graphs, tables, or concept maps.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Summarize the research problem, methodology, and findings. Restate the thesis differently from the introduction. This part should be about 10% of the total word count. Connect your findings to the literature review and suggest future research directions.

Organize your references alphabetically in A-Z format following APA or Harvard guidelines. Make sure each reference is scholarly and used in your paper. Include links if needed. Double-check everything to meet the Rubric requirements.

8. Revision and Peer Review:

Before submitting your nursing research paper, thoroughly review and revise the content for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Share your draft with peers, mentors, or colleagues to gather constructive feedback. Address any feedback received and revise your paper for clarity, grammar, and style.

9. Submission and Publication:

Once satisfied with the final draft, submit your nursing research paper to a reputable journal or conference for peer review and potential publication.

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50 Potential Nursing Research Topics

• The impact of nurse-patient communication on patient satisfaction and outcomes.
• Exploring the effectiveness of telehealth in nursing care delivery.
• Assessing the prevalence and management of nurse burnout in different healthcare settings.
• The role of advanced practice nurses in improving primary care access and outcomes.
• Examining the effectiveness of simulation-based training in nursing education.
• Investigating the influence of cultural competence on patient care and health disparities.
• Exploring the use of artificial intelligence in nursing practice and patient care.
• Assessing the impact of nurse-led interventions on chronic disease management.
• Examining the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from paper to electronic health records in nursing.
• The role of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress among nursing professionals.
• Investigating the relationship between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes.
• Assessing the effectiveness of pain management protocols in postoperative care.
• Exploring the experiences and challenges of male nurses in the nursing profession.
• The impact of continuing education on nursing practice and patient outcomes.
• Examining the role of nurses in promoting vaccination and preventing infectious diseases.
• Investigating the factors influencing nurse retention and turnover in healthcare organizations.
• The effectiveness of nursing interventions in managing patients with mental health disorders.
• Exploring the role of nurses in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing chronic diseases.
• Assessing the implementation and outcomes of evidence-based practice in nursing.
• Investigating the ethical challenges in end-of-life care decision-making by nurses.
• The role of nursing in addressing the opioid epidemic and substance abuse.
• Examining the impact of nurse-led clinics on community health and access to care.
• Assessing the effectiveness of nurse-managed programs in improving maternal and child health.
• Exploring the perceptions and experiences of patients receiving care from nurse practitioners.
• Investigating the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in preventing hospital-acquired infections.
• The impact of interprofessional collaboration on patient outcomes in healthcare.
• Examining the relationship between nurse leadership styles and organizational culture.
• Assessing the effectiveness of nursing interventions in reducing falls among elderly patients.
• Exploring the challenges and opportunities of nursing care in rural and underserved communities.
• Investigating the role of nursing in promoting mental health and well-being.
• The impact of technology on communication and collaboration among nursing teams.
• Assessing the knowledge and attitudes of nurses towards LGBTQ+ patients in healthcare.
• Examining the role of nursing in disaster preparedness and response.
• Investigating the effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers.
• Exploring the impact of nurse empowerment on patient safety and quality of care.
• Assessing the use of patient-centered care models in nursing practice.
• The role of nursing in addressing health disparities among diverse populations.
• Examining the impact of nurse-led health promotion programs in schools.
• Investigating the role of nurses in promoting ethical decision-making in healthcare.
• Assessing the effectiveness of nursing interventions in managing chronic pain.
• Exploring the impact of nurse-led education programs on patient outcomes.
• The role of nursing in addressing the mental health needs of pediatric patients.
• Examining the effectiveness of nurse-managed transitional care programs.
• Assessing the impact of cultural competence training on nursing practice.
• Investigating the relationship between nurse staffing ratios and medication errors.
• The role of nursing in promoting a culture of safety in healthcare organizations.
• Exploring the experiences of immigrant nurses in the healthcare workforce.
• Assessing the impact of nurse-led interventions in promoting healthy aging.
• Examining the effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing hospital readmissions.
• Investigating the role of nursing in promoting health equity and social justice.

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Writing a Nursing Research Paper that Meets Professor's Requirements

As a nursing student, you will spend much time researching, reading, and writing papers. Many students find the entire process of writing research papers challenging.

Imagine on top of spending many hours in clinical practice shifts only to find yourself sparing more time researching and writing, not to mention the overwhelming information condensed in a few hours of in-class lecture sessions. Working shifts and studying while having family duties and obligations worsens it, and when done in a rush, you end up with subpar papers and average grades.

Even though many student nurses find writing research papers tricky and daunting, you can write a perfect paper that ticks all the checkboxes your professor uses to mark them and be sure to get an A+ grade on your nursing paper.

Our expert nursing research writers, who have written thousands of BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. papers, have compiled this comprehensive guide to help you write a strong nursing research paper that leaves a lasting impression on your professor.

Having marked many papers and supervised many theses, capstone projects, and dissertations, you can trust that the information herein is valuable and timely in your pursuit of nursing career success.

What is a Nursing Research Paper?

A nursing research paper is a scholarly and thesis-driven paper that a nursing student (at ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, or Ph.D. level) writes to comprehensively explore a specific nursing research topic either of their choice or one that the professor assigns.

To write a perfect research paper, the student has to provide concrete, reliable, and trustworthy evidence. In most cases, even professionals such as RNs undertaking clinical practice, nursing education training, clinical studies and evaluations, and nursing research can also write research papers published in journals or conferences to advance and disseminate nursing knowledge. The typical length of most nursing papers ranges from 5 pages to 20 pages, depending mainly on the complexity of the subject, the word count limits, and the requirements. Nurses and nursing students write research papers to share their insights as they learn more about nursing processes and practices. Nursing research papers are used to: document research, organize information, advance nursing scholarship, and improve the writing skills of nurses. Students in the USA, Australia, Japan, and Canada write their research papers in the American Psychological Association (APA) format, while those in Australia and the UK write them in Harvard formats. The research papers fall under three main categories:

• Analytical research papers. These papers present an analysis of the topic using evidence, facts, and examples.
• Argumentative research papers. These research papers are analytical but with a twist where the writer uses evidence to reinforce their opinion and persuade the reader.
• Expository research papers. This category of nursing research papers explains the subject matter using credible evidence such as examples, facts, statistics, and other pieces of evidence.

Structure and Format of a Nursing Research Paper

A simple nursing research paper, especially an expository or informative type, can have 5 paragraphs, like a typical essay. However, longer research papers have additional sections.

Scientific Nursing Research Paper Structure

Here is a breakdown of how a well-formatted and scientific nursing research paper should look like.

• Title Page. The title page comprises the research paper title, details of the student or professional writer, course details, details of the school or institution, and the date. The cover page is the first contact point with the reader. It is brief.
• Abstract. The abstract summarizes the nursing research paper. It is 200-250 words long and should be focused on what the reader expects. It is a condensed version of the paper, which is critical to help professors know what your paper is about. It should not have acronyms. Note that the word count of the abstract is not considered part of the research paper.
• The Introduction. The introduction should have an attention-getter or a hook that can be a statement, statistic, or fact. It should be 10% of the entire word count. It also has background information that details the nursing issue or topic you are exploring. It also comprises a well-thought-out thesis statement related to the topic. If you have a long paper, ensure that your problem and purpose statements are part of the introduction. It should also list your PICOT question .
• Literature Review. This is a critical section of the research paper. Here, you should explore other nursing scholars' thoughts and scholarly findings. Focus on peer-reviewed scholarly articles that address the same issue as your thesis statement or topic. Explore your topic's theories, theoretical frameworks, and other facts. Do it so well that your professor marvels at your research, organization, and writing prowess. Consider the levels of evidence as you choose selection criteria for the papers to include in your nursing literature review.
• Research Methodology. This section of the research paper details the data collection methods, such as ethnographic studies, secondary data collection, literature review, quasi-experimental research, correlational studies, descriptive research, ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, or experiments. Ensure that you state and give a rationale for your research design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods). If you are writing a quantitative paper, explain how you tested the hypotheses. Also, report the sampling frame and the sampling strategy.
• Results and Discussion. This section of the paper presents the findings. You can use visual aids such as charts and graphs for a quantitative research paper. If you are writing a qualitative research paper, present the evidence chronologically. When presenting the findings, avoid making definitive facts. Instead, ensure that the results suggest something is true or false, even when testing a hypothesis.
• Conclusion and Recommendations. The conclusion should be 10% of the entire word count. You should restate the thesis and give a summary of your entire paper. Explore the recommendations for future research on the topic.
• Ensure that your reference list is arranged alphabetically. The list should adhere to the formatting requirements (Harvard, ASA, or APA formats). Only use scholarly peer-reviewed references.

Format for a General Nursing Research Paper

If you are writing a non-scientific nursing research paper, you will only have three sections as follows:

• Introduction. The introduction paragraph should introduce the topic by providing an attention-getter, background information, and a thesis statement.
• Body of the paper . The body paragraphs should have strong topic sentences, supporting details (examples, evidence, and explanation), and concluding sentences. It should also portray a good use of transition words. You should analyze the topic and use evidence to support the arguments, and give enough explanation. Use in-text citations within the body paragraphs.
• Conclusion. End the paper by recapping the main points, reasserting the thesis statement, and signaling the end of the paper to give your readers good closure.

An excellent nursing research paper follows this structure as long as it is not research-based. The three-part approach is super recommended if you did not conduct any study. In most cases, when assigned to write those 5-12 pages of nursing school research papers, you will be using this format.

So, what are the steps for writing a good nursing research paper? Let’s find out in the next section.

The 6 Main Steps for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

Writing assignments are an essential training aspect for nursing students. No wonder professors will stress that you write essays, discussion posts, responses, or proposals well. They are doing so to prepare you for research roles somewhere in your nursing career.

According to our most successful research paper writers, writing a top-grade research paper involves decoding the instructions, selecting a good topic, planning, researching, writing, and polishing the paper.

Here is a breakdown of each step for clarity and deeper understanding.

Step #1: Understand the Prompt or Instructions

You can only perfect what you know! Therefore, you can begin the research writing process by reading, analyzing, and understanding the instructions. It is an essential pre-writing stage process where you carefully read the instructions.

Although it sounds obvious, most nursing students who write off-topic and subpar research papers jump into writing without reading to understand the instructions.

You need to skim through the instructions on the first attempt, then read keenly and critically as you take note of the scope of the assignment, the topic, and other things you must fulfill in the paper. Take note of the:

• The number of words.
• Type of research paper (argumentative, analytical, exploratory, or persuasive).
• The structure of the paper (thesis-driven or research/study-based (scientific) research paper.
• The deadline.
• Whether you need to draft an outline.
• Reading materials.
• Whether you need external sources.
• Which sources to use and how many?
• The theoretical constructions or conceptual frameworks.
• The age limit of the scholarly sources.

If you need further clarification, ensure that you ask your peers, professor, or a professional writer in time.

Step #2: Select a Good Nursing Research Topic

Compared to average students, top nursing students always remember to select a research topic they are comfortable handling. When you are confident with a topic, you can develop it without procrastinating.

Sometimes you are given a list of nursing research paper topics, issues, and ideas to consider. Other times, you come up with the topic and consult your professor/educator for approval.  

Choose topics related to patient safety, nursing processes, nurse staffing, nursing policies, nurse privileges, nursing legislations, nursing ethics, mental health, health promotion, chronic disease management, healthcare systems, health informatics, changes in healthcare, and working conditions.

Choose any nursing topic that resonates with your specialization interests. It should be manageable, relevant, and explorable.

Related Readings:

• Nursing informatics research topics
• Capstone project ideas and topics for BSN, MSN, and DNP students
• Mental health nursing topics
• Epidemiology nursing topics
• List of the best nursing research paper topics
• Evidence-based nursing topics and ideas
• Nursing ethical dilemmas

Step #3: Plan your Paper

Create a thesis statement for your research paper if it is thesis-driven rather than study-based or scientific (experimental). After writing the thesis, like any of our nursing assignment slayers, write a good outline using Roman numbers and numbers.

List the ideas you wish to have in your paper in chronological order, starting with the introduction, body, and concluding paragraphs. As you outline, do some preliminary research so that you develop arguments the right way.

Include the in-text citations in your nursing research paper outline to simplify the writing process.

Step #4: Research and Organize Resources

Doing in-depth research as you refine the draft would be appropriate because you know what you want the paper to look like. Use scholarly nursing databases for research and limit yourself to topic-related scholarly articles published within the last 5 years.

You can read the abstracts of the articles to determine if they are fit to use in your paper. If you find the best articles, list them using online citation management tools such as RefWorks, Zotero, EndNote, Citefast, or any of your choice.

Ensure to list them in the most appropriate formatting styles. Take notes and list the points and ideas in your outline. Do your research meticulously and ensure that you organize the process to avoid any confusion.

Step #5: Write the First Draft

With the research, synthesis, and outline, you are now left with the chance to put rubber on the road. Use the Pomodoro technique, where you spend stretches of 25 minutes of focused work and have minor 5-minute breaks.

Ensure you cover as much ground in your research paper as possible before three-quarters of the deadline. When writing the paper, and considering that you have the outline, you can start chronologically from the introduction to the appendices.

Most research paper writing pros prefer working on the body section and conclusion before writing the introduction and finalizing the abstract. Whatever works best for you, adopt it. When writing the first draft, focus on piecing together the information rather than perfection.

Ensure you research lightly as you write and assert your voice while giving the right in-text citations for every idea you paraphrase from a source to avoid plagiarism. Each body paragraph should only have one idea.

Step #6: Edit, Proofread, and Polish the Paper

The final step towards completing your nursing research paper is ensuring everything is in its rightful place. A polished research paper scores 90% and above, which is an A. Begin by reading the paper aloud to identify areas that do not make sense.

If there is a need, do not hesitate to rewrite an entire section so that you have the right flow of information.

Check the grammatical, spelling, and syntax errors and make necessary corrections. You should also check the tenses used in the paper. If you feel like polishing the essay is too much work, you are better off hiring a nursing paper proofreader/editor.

When you receive feedback from your educator or professor, address the changes and resend the paper for grading.

Related Reading: How to write an evidence-based nursing paper.

Valuable Tips to Consider as You Write Your Nursing Research Paper

Nursing schools and educators have their standards and guidelines for writing a research paper. Therefore, ensure that before everything else, you familiarize yourself and adhere to these instructions, which include word count and citation styles.

Do not assume anything when writing a paper. You should also access and understand suggestions from your school’s writing lab. Apart from these essential tips, also ensure that you follow the insights we give below:

• Write your paper using a formal tone. Do not use passive voice when writing the paper. Instead, use active voice.
• Your paper should have a good organization from the introduction to the conclusion.
• Whenever you borrow ideas from a scholarly source, ensure you cite them correctly.
• Have a well-thought-out thesis statement that clarifies your arguments.
• Create a complete outline during the early stages of writing. It gives you a roadmap to follow as you write the paper. Organize the ideas chronologically based on their strength and weaknesses.
• Have a plan and schedule to trace your progress with the paper.
• If you have a more extended deadline, contribute to your research paper daily.
• When writing the paper, start with the body, the conclusion, and the introduction last.
• If you are writing a study-based research paper, include the literature review, methodology, discussion, and conclusion sections per the IMRAD format. A general nursing research paper follows the essay structure: introduction, body section, and conclusion.
• Use peer-reviewed scholarly sources from CINAHL, PubMed, Nursing Reference Center, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and other nursing research databases with peer-reviewed articles. Credible sources mean your research paper has rigor since you have strong points.
• Proofread and edit the paper thoroughly to remove any mistakes to signal your seriousness to your professor. If possible, use professional editing services.
• Have a compelling conclusion that is elaborate, clear, and concise.
• Read your paper aloud to identify mistakes.
• Revise the paper, and do not fear rewriting an entire section.

When writing a research paper, adhere to the writing conventions. You should also read well and understand how to communicate through academic writing effectively. Your paper should document evidence that supports your arguments and topic.

Write concisely, coherently, and accurately. It is not all in vain; you are training for your future role as a nurse when you will write conference papers, white papers, essays, policy documents, letters, blog posts, and professional nursing articles.

Checklist for a Great Research Paper in Nursing

Now that you have written your paper, you must align a few things to make it the best your professor will read. Most nursing classes, especially at the graduate levels (MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. levels), have small class sizes, and the professors spend time reading the papers from start to end. This means that you should leave nothing to chance.

Nursing research asserts professional identity, ensures accountability in nursing decision-making, and expands nursing practice. You have to be meticulous when writing a research paper in nursing.

A good research paper demonstrates a complete understanding of nursing knowledge, topic exploration, advanced organization, proper formatting, and mature academic writing skills. The following checklist enlists some main aspects to countercheck before hitting the submit button.

• Have I followed all the instructions outlined in the assignment prompt or rubric?
• Does my paper have the right title page?
• Does the paper have a written title that resonates with the thesis and the research question?
• Is the introduction presenting an attention grabber, background information, and a signpost of the ideas in the paper?
• Is the thesis statement well-thought-out, clear, concise, and elaborate?
• Is the problem statement clearly stated?
• If it is a PICOT-based research paper, is the PICO question well-outlined?
• Does the paper touch well on the nursing issue that the topic needs it to address?
• Is there a logical flow of the paragraphs?
• Are the words in each paragraph balanced?
• Does the paper have correctly formatted headings and subheadings?
• Are the in-text citations done correctly and consistently?
• Does every paragraph in the body of the paper build on the thesis?
• Does the paper demonstrate a mature choice of words and uses nursing lingo?
• Is the literature review section comprehensive? Does it have a theoretical and conceptual framework or constructs?
• Are the data and information presented in the literature review current?
• Has the methodology section listed the sample, sampling strategy, data collection and analyses, and rationale for each?
• Does the discussion section interlink the concepts from the literature review with the findings?
• Does the conclusion offer good closure to the readers? Does it restate the thesis? Does it summarize the recommendations?
• Is the entire paper formatted correctly? Does it follow the formatting guidelines?
• Is the paper devoid of spelling, syntax, and mechanical mistakes?

If your answer to all these questions is a resounding YES, you are sure it will fetch your professor a good grade. Our nursing writers, most of whom are alumni from top nursing universities and colleges such as Chamberlain, Capella, Herzing, Vanderbilt, SFU, Rutgers, Yale, Duke, NYU, UCLA, University of Pennsylvania, University of Toronto, McGill, Ottawa, Queens, and other best colleges in the USA, UK, Canada, and many other places. Besides, they are nursing educators in different capacities, and a couple are nursing professors with big titles; you can trust the checklist to guarantee you an excellent grade.

Where to Get Help When Writing Research Paper

As a nursing student, writing a research paper is something you will most likely enjoy doing. However, unforeseen things happen, prompting you to search the internet for sites to help you do your nursing research paper. NurseMyGrade.com is one such place to pay a nursing writer to do your paper.

Expect a paper that meets all the requirements, is written by a human rather than AI software, and is uniquely tailored to your requirements.  Our rates are affordable, and our writers cover diverse fields. Apart from offering advice about research, writing, and formatting papers, we have resourceful writers whom we allow you to communicate directly with via our platform.

We also maintain high levels of secrecy because we care more about your privacy and confidentiality of your details. Not even your professor can tell you got help from our website because we advise on specific strategies to use the paper. We have assisted students in various levels of nursing education with their writing, and we can do yours too.

Get affordable, well-researched, formatted, and organized nursing research papers done for you today by filling out the order form. Nursing research papers are a chance to stand out. Let our professionals help you achieve your nursing school goals.

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How to Write a Quality Nursing Research Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

Nursing research papers play a vital role in advancing the field of healthcare and providing evidence-based practices . Whether you are a nursing student embarking on your first research paper or a seasoned professional seeking to contribute to the existing body of knowledge, understanding the process of writing a quality research paper is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the key steps and strategies to help you craft a well-structured and impactful nursing research paper.

1. Selecting a Topic for your Nursing Research Paper

Choosing the right research topic is crucial for a successful nursing research paper. A well-chosen topic not only reflects your interests but also addresses a significant healthcare issue. Consider selecting a topic that is specific, relevant, and feasible within the given time frame and available resources. Conduct a thorough literature review to explore existing knowledge gaps and identify areas for further investigation. Engage in discussions with mentors, colleagues, and healthcare professionals to gain insights and refine your research topic.

2. Developing a Research Question and Hypothesis

Once you have chosen a research topic for your nursing research paper, narrow it down and develop a clear research question. Your research question should be focused, specific, and answerable through empirical evidence . It serves as the foundation for your research and guides the entire study. Additionally, formulate a hypothesis that provides a tentative answer to your research question. The hypothesis should be concise, measurable, and based on existing knowledge or theories. Crafting a well-defined research question and hypothesis is essential for maintaining a clear direction throughout the research process.

3. Conducting a Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review is a cornerstone of a high-quality nursing research paper. It helps you understand the existing body of knowledge, identify research gaps, and provide a theoretical foundation for your study. Utilize academic databases, journals, and reputable sources to gather relevant literature. Analyze and critically evaluate the literature to support your research question and develop a theoretical framework for your study. Organize the literature review based on themes or concepts to present a coherent and logical flow of information. This review also helps you identify methodologies and tools used in similar studies, which can guide your research design and data collection.

4. Designing the Study

The research design is a crucial aspect of any nursing research paper. It determines the methodology, data collection, and analysis techniques. Consider whether your study will be qualitative or quantitative, observational or experimental, and identify the appropriate sample size and sampling method. Ensure ethical considerations and address any potential biases or confounding variables. Select and justify the most appropriate research design that aligns with your research question, available resources, and ethical standards. Consult with experts in research methodology if needed to ensure the robustness and validity of your study.

5. Collecting and Analyzing Data

Collecting reliable and valid data is vital in nursing research. Depending on your research design, employ appropriate data collection methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or secondary data analysis. Develop data collection instruments that are reliable, valid, and aligned with your research objectives. Ensure proper documentation and standardization of data collection procedures to maintain consistency. After data collection, analyze the data using suitable statistical or qualitative analysis techniques, based on your research design and research question. Apply appropriate statistical tests, interpret the results, and derive meaningful conclusions. If using qualitative methods, employ coding and thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes within the data.

6. Interpreting and Presenting Findings

Interpretation and presentation of research findings are essential to communicate the significance of your study. Analyze your data, interpret the results, and discuss their implications in the context of existing literature. Address any limitations or potential biases that may have influenced the results. Use clear and concise language, tables, figures, and charts to present your findings effectively. Ensure that your conclusions are supported by evidence and aligned with your research question and hypothesis. Discuss the implications of your findings for clinical practice, policy, or further research. This section showcases your ability to critically analyze and synthesize information and contributes to the overall impact of your research.

7. Writing the Research Paper

Writing a nursing research paper requires a structured and organized approach. Start with an abstract that summarizes your study concisely, including the research question, methods, findings, and implications. Structure your paper into sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Use appropriate headings and subheadings to enhance readability and facilitate easy navigation. Write in a clear, concise, and scholarly manner, adhering to the guidelines provided by your institution or target journal. Provide relevant citations and references to acknowledge the work of others and support your arguments. Revise and edit your paper multiple times to refine your language, ensure logical flow, and eliminate any grammatical or typographical errors.

8. Revising and Editing

Revision and editing are essential to ensure the quality and clarity of your nursing research paper. Review your paper for logical flow, coherence, grammar, and spelling errors. Seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, or writing centers to get a fresh perspective on your work. Consider their suggestions and make necessary revisions to strengthen your arguments and improve the overall quality of your paper. Pay attention to the organization of ideas, clarity of language, and consistency of formatting. Edit your paper for clarity, conciseness, and adherence to the guidelines. Take breaks between revisions to maintain a fresh perspective and identify any areas that may require further improvement.

Writing a quality nursing research paper requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and effective communication of your findings. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can navigate through the research process with confidence. Remember to choose a compelling topic, conduct a thorough literature review, design your study carefully, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present your findings in a clear and concise manner.

With these strategies, you can contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge, inform evidence-based practices, and make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare . Writing a high-quality nursing research paper is a rewarding experience that allows you to contribute to the ever-evolving field of nursing and improve patient outcomes.

Nursing Assignment Help

Are you a nursing student struggling with your research paper or other assignments? Look no further! We at Nursing Research Help offer comprehensive assignment help services tailored specifically for nursing students. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges faced by nursing students and is equipped to provide the support and guidance you need. Whether you need assistance with topic selection, literature review, research design, data analysis, or writing and editing your paper, we’ve got you covered.

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

List of Nursing Resources on the Purdue OWL

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

These resources will help you write on the job and in the classes you will take to become a nurse.

"Writing as a Professional Nurse" provides three general, though important, rules working nurses should keep in mind while writing reports and charts and while communicating with doctors and patients.

"Writing in the Field" discusses three examples of writing tasks nurses perform: flowcharts, careplans, and narratives.

"List of Nursing Resources" provides links to Purdue OWL resources that both nurses and nursing students might find helpful while writing for work or school. Each link provides a brief description of the resource and how and why it will help nurses and students with their writing tasks.

As a nursing student, you will write different types of texts, such as research papers and group presentations. All of this writing has common characteristics: to be concise, evidence-based, supported by credible and appropriate research, to be professional, and to follow APA style. This section offers resources that are designed to help nursing students with these and other writing concerns.

American Psychological Association (APA)

APA Style Workshop

APA Citation Rules

APA is used in scientific and social scientific disciplines, including nursing, and standardizes research and citation formats. These links provide information for APA style, with the first link offering an overview of APA style and the second providing specific APA rules and sample APA papers.

APA Paper Sample

This sample shows you how to write and format a nursing research paper in APA.

The Rhetorical Situation

This PowerPoint presentation will help you understand the importance of the context in which you write. There are many factors that influence your writing: you, the writer; your purpose; your audience; your context; and the culture surrounding the context. For example, you will write differently for your professors than you will for your patients. Their varying education levels and different situations, or context, will cause you to use different language and present your topic differently.

Audience Analysis

This resource will help you with one important part of the rhetorical situation: analyzing your audience and tailoring your writing to fit your audience’s needs. There is also a handout available on this page with a chart to help you with your audience analysis.

Writing Scientific Abstracts

This PowerPoint presentation discusses the importance of writing abstracts and offers tools on how to write them. Abstracts allow you to present information in a clear, concise manner and are part of writing in APA style.

Conducting Primary Research

Primary research is an important component while writing as a nursing student. It allows you to support your argument, or thesis statement, with evidence; this, in turn, creates ethos, or credibility, for you as an author. This link offers many resources about primary research, including how to get started and how to conduct the various kinds of primary research.

Conducting an Interview

This PowerPoint presentation discusses the steps involved in conducting an interview as part of primary research. You may be asked to conduct an interview with clinical nurses, patients, or physicians as part of a writing assignment or research paper. Consult this PowerPoint before contacting your interviewee because it offers tips for how to contact him or her.

Database Research Tutorial from the Purdue Library

Engaging in secondary research, or research that is gathered from existing research performed and published by another author, is an essential part of writing as a nursing student. Using databases is one way to collect information, and this resource links to the Purdue Library’s tutorial on how to use databases.

Searching the World Wide Web

The Internet is a convenient and useful way to gather information; however, nursing professors expect their students to perform research that goes beyond a Google search. This PowerPoint presentation offers strategies for conducting Internet research, and it explains components of using the Internet you may not be familiar with, for example, the visible and invisible web. Use this PowerPoint presentation in conjunction with the database research tutorial for a good overview of how to conduct Internet research.

Evaluating Sources of Information

Not all sources of information are credible or reliable, and it is your job as a nursing student to be able to tell the difference. This resource offers different ways to decipher whether or not a source is credible.

Documenting Electronic Sources

When conducting secondary research, you might come across credible electronic sources that you would like to integrate into your writing. Documenting these sources properly is important because it builds your credibility as a writer, and it shows your readers, i.e., your nursing professors, that you have followed APA guidelines. This resource provides information and links to other resources that will help you properly document electronic sources.

Annotated Bibliographies

Annotated bibliographies, a summary and/or evaluation of sources, can help you organize your research. This resource explains the purpose of annotated bibliographies and provides examples. There are examples for APA, MLA, and CMS on this page; be sure to follow the APA format, as each citation style differs.

Thesis: Establishing an Argument

This page explains the importance of a thesis and how you can create an effective statement. Thesis statements are important to your writing because they control the paper’s overall purpose. These statements are especially important for you as a nursing student because writing in nursing should be logical, organized, concise, and clear; having a strong thesis will help you achieve this type of writing.

Grammar, Mechanics, and a Brief Discussion about Revision

The Grammar and Mechanics section on the OWL will help you learn how to use correct language. Using correct grammar will help your ethos, i.e., it will build your credibility, and it makes your writing appear more professional. One way to help improve your grammar is by reviewing the pages within the grammar and mechanics section and by completing the grammar and mechanics exercises. Another way to help correct grammar mistakes is by revising your writing. You can fix most of your grammar errors by reading your paper aloud before you turn it into your professor. Reading your paper aloud also offers you a chance to hear your writing, and you may find that some of the ideas you thought were clear are not as clear or organized as you hoped they would be.

Designing an Effective PowerPoint Presentation

PowerPoint presentations are a useful tool to use when delivering individual or group presentations. This PowerPoint presentation defines the basic elements of a PowerPoint slideshow and discusses how you can use these elements in effective and professional ways.

Personal Statements

Personal statements are an important part of the application process for nursing school. This section of resources offers writing samples and information that will help guide you while writing the personal statement. While using these resources and writing your statement, keep in mind the specific application for which you writing, as different nursing schools ask for different types of personal statements, i.e., the applications may ask you to respond to different types of questions.

Résumés and Cover Letters

Résumés and cover letters are important documents traditionally created toward the end of your nursing education, though it never hurts to start creating them during the start of your education. Use these resources to help you create your résumé and cover letter. You also might find it useful to consult the rhetorical situation and audience analysis resources, as these resources will help you understand the context in which and for which you will create your résumé and cover letter. Links to commonly used databases and sites: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed http://www.apastyle.org/manual/whats-new.aspx http://www.apastyle.org/ Databases available through the Purdue Library website: Academic Search Premier Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition MEDLINE CINAHL

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How to Write the Nursing Research Methodology Section

• Author Jermaine Huey
• Published November 29, 2023

Nursing research methodology is a crucial component of any nursing research paper. It involves the methods used to conduct the study, including research design, data collection, and ethical considerations . In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to help you write an effective nursing research methodology section.

At NursingWriters.net, we understand the challenges that busy nurses face in their academic programs. Our nursing writing service is designed to empower nurses in BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, providing expert guidance on various writing and comprehension challenges they may encounter.

Key Takeaways:

• Writing a nursing research methodology section is essential for the validity and reliability of the study.
• Choosing a relevant and manageable topic is crucial for a successful nursing research paper.
• Conducting a comprehensive literature review helps identify existing knowledge and research gaps in the field.
• Developing a clear research question and objectives guides the study and refines the research approach.
• Designing and conducting the study involves selecting the appropriate research design, collecting and analyzing data, and addressing ethical considerations .

Selecting a Relevant and Manageable Topic

Choosing the right topic is essential when it comes to writing a successful nursing research paper. To ensure that your research is relevant and contributes to the field of nursing, it is important to select a topic that aligns with current trends or addresses gaps in knowledge. By conducting a thorough literature review, you can identify areas that require further exploration or offer opportunities for innovative research.

When selecting a topic, it is crucial to consider the manageability of the research within the given timeframe and available resources. You want to choose a topic that is achievable and can be effectively researched and analyzed. Taking into account the scope of the project and your available time and resources will help ensure that your research is feasible.

Here are some tips to help you select a relevant and manageable nursing research topic:

• Stay updated with current trends and issues in the nursing field
• Identify gaps in existing literature or areas that require further exploration
• Consider your own interests and passion within the field of nursing
• Consult with mentors or colleagues for guidance and feedback

By following these steps, you can select a nursing research topic that is both relevant and manageable, setting the foundation for a successful research paper.

Relevant and Manageable Topic Example

“The Impact of Nurse-to-Patient Ratios on Patient Outcomes in Intensive Care Units”

This research topic addresses a current trend and important issue in the nursing field – the impact of nurse-to-patient ratios on patient outcomes. By selecting this topic, the researcher can contribute valuable insights to the ongoing discussion surrounding proper staffing in intensive care units. The topic is manageable within the given resources and timeframe, allowing for thorough research and analysis.

In Conclusion

Selecting a relevant and manageable nursing research topic is crucial for the success of your research paper. By choosing a topic that aligns with current trends, addresses gaps in knowledge, and is manageable within your available resources and time, you can ensure that your research is meaningful and impactful. Remember to seek guidance from mentors or colleagues for feedback during the topic selection process. With a well-selected topic, you can embark on a research journey that contributes to the field of nursing and enhances patient care.

• Nursing Research: Generating and Assessing Evidence for Nursing Practice by Denise F. Polit and Cheryl Tatano Beck
• Reading, Understanding, and Applying Nursing Research by James A. Fain
• Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare: A Guide to Best Practice by Bernadette Mazurek Melnyk and Ellen Fineout-Overholt

Gathering and Evaluating Relevant Literature in Nursing Research

One of the fundamental steps in conducting nursing research is conducting a comprehensive literature review. This process involves gathering and critically evaluating relevant studies and scholarly sources related to the research topic.

During the literature review, researchers should utilize databases, scholarly journals, and reputable sources to identify existing knowledge on the topic. By analyzing and critically evaluating these studies, researchers can gain insights into the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the current literature.

The literature review serves several purposes in nursing research. Firstly, it helps researchers build a strong theoretical foundation for their study by examining the existing body of knowledge. Secondly, it enables researchers to identify research opportunities and gaps in the literature that their study can address. Lastly, the literature review provides context and supports the rationale for the research question and objectives.

Key Steps for Conducting a Literature Review in Nursing Research

• Identify relevant databases and scholarly journals in the nursing field
• Develop search strategies using relevant keywords and search terms
• Screen and select studies based on inclusion and exclusion criteria
• Analyze and critically evaluate selected studies for their methodologies, findings, and limitations
• Synthesize the findings from the literature review to identify research gaps and opportunities

“A comprehensive literature review is crucial for understanding the current state of knowledge in a particular research area and identifying gaps that need further exploration.” – Dr. Jane Thompson, Nursing Researcher

The table above provides an example of how researchers can present key studies in the literature review section. By summarizing the study, methodology, and findings, researchers can demonstrate their understanding of the current literature and highlight relevant studies that contribute to the research objectives .

Developing a Clear Research Question and Objectives

Developing a clear research question and objectives is crucial in nursing research. The research question should address a specific problem or knowledge gap in the nursing field, guiding the study and serving as the basis for the research objectives . By formulating a well-defined research question, nurses can focus their efforts on conducting meaningful research that contributes to evidence-based practice and enhances patient care.

When developing a research question, it is important to consider the relevance and feasibility of the topic. The question should be specific enough to provide clear direction for the study, but broad enough to allow for meaningful exploration of the topic. Seeking input from mentors or colleagues can provide valuable feedback and help refine the research approach.

Once the research question is established, it is essential to define clear research objectives . These objectives should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). They serve as actionable steps to achieve the research goal and provide a framework for the research design and data collection process. Clear research objectives facilitate a focused and systematic approach to data analysis and interpretation.

Key Considerations:

• Identify a specific problem or knowledge gap in the nursing field
• Formulate a well-defined research question that guides the study
• Develop clear and specific research objectives
• Seek input from mentors or colleagues for valuable feedback

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANaoUhxveV8

Developing a clear research question and objectives is the foundation of a successful nursing research study. It helps researchers stay focused, ensures the study’s relevance and applicability to nursing practice, and contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field.

Designing and Conducting the Study

Once the research question and objectives are in place, it is important to design the study accordingly. The research design in nursing plays a critical role in determining the validity and reliability of the study’s findings. It provides a framework for data collection and analysis, allowing researchers to draw meaningful conclusions.

When considering the research design, it is essential to select a method that aligns with the research goals and objectives. Common research designs in nursing include experimental designs, observational studies, and qualitative research methods. Each design has its strengths and limitations, so it is crucial to choose the most appropriate one for the research question at hand.

After finalizing the research design, attention should be given to the data collection methods . The data collection methods in nursing research can include surveys, interviews, observations, and document analysis, among others. Researchers must carefully select the most suitable methods to gather accurate and reliable data. Ethical considerations , such as obtaining informed consent and ensuring participant confidentiality, should also guide the data collection process.

Once the data is collected, researchers must analyze it using appropriate statistical techniques or qualitative analysis methods. This analysis will provide insights into the research question and objectives, helping to answer them in a meaningful way. The analysis should be conducted systematically and rigorously, ensuring the credibility and validity of the findings.

Structuring and Writing the Paper

The structure of a nursing research paper is essential for effectively communicating the study’s findings. A well-organized paper allows readers to easily navigate through the content and understand the research process. The paper should include the following sections:

• Introduction: This section provides background information on the topic and states the research question and objectives. It sets the stage for the study and gives readers an understanding of the research context.
• Methodology: The methodology section describes the study design, participants, data collection procedures, and analysis methods. It should be detailed enough for other researchers to replicate the study if needed.
• Results: Present the findings of the study clearly and concisely. Utilize appropriate tables, graphs, or qualitative data extracts to support the findings. Avoid interpretation or discussion in this section.
• Discussion: Interpret and discuss the results in the context of existing literature. Analyze the implications of the findings and their significance for the nursing field. Discuss any limitations of the study and suggest directions for future research.
• Conclusion: Summarize the key findings of the study and provide recommendations for future research or clinical practice. Restate the research question and objectives to reinforce the study’s focus.

Organizing research findings is crucial to ensuring a coherent and logical flow throughout the paper. Consider using subheadings within each section to further structure the content. This allows readers to quickly locate specific information within the paper and enhances readability.

When writing the methodology section , provide sufficient detail to ensure transparency and reproducibility of the study. Describe the study design, including any randomization or control groups. Specify the number and characteristics of the participants, along with any inclusion or exclusion criteria. Detail the data collection procedures, such as surveys, interviews, or observations. Explain how the data was analyzed, including any statistical tests or qualitative analysis methods used.

Remember to cite all relevant sources and include a reference list at the end of the paper. This gives credit to the original authors and allows readers to further explore the topic. Formatting the paper according to the required citation style (APA, MLA, etc.) is important to maintain consistency and professionalism.

Table: Elements of a Nursing Research Paper

By following a well-structured approach and organizing research findings effectively, nursing researchers can create papers that are informative, cohesive, and impactful.

Ethical Considerations in Nursing Research

When conducting nursing research, it is essential to address ethical considerations to ensure the protection of participant rights , informed consent , and data confidentiality. Ethical guidelines play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and credibility of research studies.

Participant rights are of utmost importance in nursing research. Researchers must prioritize the well-being and privacy of study participants. This includes obtaining informed consent , ensuring voluntary participation, and protecting the confidentiality of personal information. Respecting these rights is crucial for maintaining ethical standards and fostering trust between researchers and participants.

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in research. It involves providing participants with comprehensive information about the study’s purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and their rights. Researchers must obtain voluntary, informed consent from participants before their involvement in the study. This ensures that participants are fully aware of what their participation entails and that they have the freedom to withdraw at any time.

Data protection is another key ethical consideration in nursing research. Researchers must take measures to protect the confidentiality and privacy of participant data. This includes storing data securely, ensuring only authorized personnel have access, and anonymizing data during analysis and reporting. By safeguarding participant information, researchers uphold the ethical principles of respect, beneficence, and justice.

Data Analysis in Nursing Research

Data analysis plays a crucial role in nursing research, as it allows researchers to make sense of the collected data and draw meaningful conclusions. In nursing, data analysis methods can vary depending on the nature of the study. Quantitative research often involves statistical analysis techniques, while qualitative research employs methods such as thematic analysis or content analysis.

Statistical analysis involves the use of statistical tests and tools to examine relationships between variables, determine the significance of findings, and identify patterns or trends in the data. It enables researchers to quantify and summarize data, providing a basis for making evidence-based decisions and recommendations. Statistical analysis also helps to validate research hypotheses and answer research questions.

“Data analysis is not just about crunching numbers; it is about uncovering meaningful insights that can inform nursing practice and improve patient outcomes.”

Qualitative analysis , on the other hand, involves a more interpretive approach to data analysis. It focuses on understanding the subjective experiences and meanings attributed to phenomena by individuals. Qualitative analysis methods often include coding and thematic analysis, where researchers identify patterns, themes, and categories in the data. This allows for a deeper exploration of complex phenomena and provides rich descriptions and narratives that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of nursing practice.

Regardless of the data analysis methods used, it is important for researchers to be rigorous and transparent in their approach. This includes clearly documenting the steps taken in the analysis, ensuring data quality and accuracy, and reporting findings in a clear and concise manner. By conducting robust data analysis, nursing researchers can contribute to the body of knowledge in the field and drive evidence-based practice forward.

Incorporating Nursing Theory and Evidence-Based Practice

In nursing research, the incorporation of nursing theory and evidence-based practice is essential for advancing the field and providing high-quality patient care. Nursing theory provides a theoretical foundation that guides research and practice, while evidence-based practice ensures that nursing interventions are based on the best available evidence. By incorporating nursing theory and evidence-based practice, researchers can enhance the theoretical and practical implications of their research.

Nursing theory serves as a framework for understanding and addressing complex nursing phenomena. It provides a systematic and organized way of thinking about nursing practice, education, and research. By drawing on nursing theories, researchers can develop a theoretical foundation for their studies and explore the relationships between different variables. This allows for a deeper understanding of the phenomena under investigation and enhances the validity and applicability of the research findings .

Furthermore, evidence-based practice ensures that nursing interventions are based on the best available evidence from research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences. By integrating research evidence into practice, nurses can provide the most effective and efficient care to their patients. Evidence-based practice also promotes the use of standardized and validated interventions, which improves the consistency and quality of patient care across different healthcare settings.

The incorporation of nursing theory and evidence-based practice has several implications for nursing research. Firstly, it allows researchers to generate new knowledge that is grounded in both theory and empirical evidence. This strengthens the overall body of nursing knowledge and contributes to the ongoing development of the profession. Secondly, it promotes the translation of research findings into practice, ensuring that evidence-based interventions are implemented to improve patient outcomes. Finally, it empowers nurses to critically evaluate and apply research findings in their clinical practice, enhancing their ability to provide safe and effective care.

In summary, nursing research should incorporate nursing theory and evidence-based practice to advance the field and improve patient care. By drawing on nursing theories, researchers can develop a theoretical foundation for their studies and explore the relationships between variables. Integrating evidence-based practice ensures that nursing interventions are based on the best available evidence, promoting high-quality and standardized care. The incorporation of nursing theory and evidence-based practice strengthens the theoretical and practical implications of nursing research, contributing to the development of the profession and enhancing patient outcomes.

Collaboration and Peer Review in Nursing Research

Collaboration and peer review play a critical role in ensuring the quality and validity of nursing research. By seeking feedback and input from mentors, colleagues, and experts in the field, researchers can improve the overall rigor and impact of their studies. Collaboration allows for diverse perspectives and insights, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of nursing knowledge. It encourages interdisciplinary collaboration , bringing together professionals from different backgrounds to address complex healthcare challenges.

Peer review , on the other hand, provides an essential mechanism for critical evaluation and validation of research findings. Experts in the field review the research methods, data analysis, and interpretation of results to ensure accuracy and reliability. This process helps to identify any potential biases, flaws, or limitations in the research, ultimately enhancing the credibility and trustworthiness of the study. By subjecting research to peer review , the nursing community can maintain high standards of quality and contribute to evidence-based practice.

Feedback, whether through collaboration or peer review, is invaluable in refining research and improving its overall quality. It allows researchers to address gaps or weaknesses in their methodology, consider alternative perspectives, and explore areas for further investigation. Constructive feedback fosters growth and empowers researchers to produce more robust and impactful studies that address the complex healthcare challenges of today and tomorrow.

The Benefits of Collaboration and Peer Review in Nursing Research

Collaboration and peer review offer numerous benefits to nursing research. These include:

• Enhanced research quality: Collaboration and peer review help identify and address any methodological flaws, ensuring the research is of the highest quality.
• Validation: Peer review provides a stamp of approval from experts in the field, validating the research and increasing its credibility.
• Diverse perspectives: Collaboration allows for different viewpoints and ideas, fostering innovation and ensuring a comprehensive understanding of complex healthcare issues.
• Networking opportunities: Collaborating with other researchers and receiving feedback from experts can open doors to new collaborations, research projects, and career opportunities.
• Professional development: Engaging in collaboration and peer review can enhance researchers’ skills in critical thinking, writing, and data analysis, contributing to their professional growth.

In conclusion, collaboration and peer review are integral to nursing research. By embracing these practices, researchers can enhance the quality and impact of their studies, pushing the boundaries of nursing knowledge and contributing to evidence-based practice.

Nursing Assignment Help for Research Papers

Writing a nursing research paper can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to the methodology section. This is where nursing assignment help services can provide valuable assistance. At NursingWriters.net, we offer expert guidance and support to nursing students and researchers, helping them navigate the complexities of research methodology.

Our team of experienced writers and researchers understands the unique requirements of nursing research papers. Whether you need help selecting a research topic, conducting a literature review, or designing and conducting your study, our experts are here to assist you at every step of the process. We provide tailored assistance based on your specific writing and comprehension challenges, ensuring that you excel in your studies and produce high-quality research papers.

By availing our nursing assignment help services, you can benefit from the knowledge and expertise of our team. Our experts have years of experience in the nursing field and are well-versed in the latest research methodologies and best practices. They can provide valuable insights, feedback, and guidance to help you enhance the quality and success of your research endeavors. Whether you need assistance with research paper writing, data analysis, or incorporating nursing theory, our experts are here to support you.

So, why struggle with your nursing research paper when you can get expert assistance? Contact NursingWriters.net today and take advantage of our nursing assignment help services. Our team is committed to helping you excel in your studies and make a meaningful contribution to the nursing field.

In conclusion, the nursing research methodology section is a crucial component of any nursing research paper. It provides a detailed explanation of the methods used to conduct the study, ensuring the validity and reliability of the findings.

Throughout this article, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective nursing research methodology section. We discussed the importance of selecting a relevant and manageable topic, conducting a thorough literature review, developing clear research questions and objectives, designing and conducting the study, and structuring and writing the paper.

Ethical considerations, data analysis, and the incorporation of nursing theory and evidence-based practice were also highlighted. Additionally, we emphasized the significance of collaboration and peer review in enhancing the quality and rigor of nursing research. By following these guidelines, nursing students and researchers can navigate the complexities of research methodology and contribute to evidence-based practice in the nursing field.

Looking ahead, future implications of nursing research methodology include further advancements in research design and data analysis techniques, as well as the incorporation of emerging technologies. As the nursing field continues to evolve, it is crucial for researchers to stay updated with the latest methodologies and contribute to evidence-based practice to enhance patient care.

How do I write the nursing research methodology section?

To write the nursing research methodology section, you need to provide a detailed explanation of the methods used in the study, including the research design, data collection methods , and ethical considerations.

How do I select a relevant and manageable topic for my nursing research paper?

To select a relevant and manageable topic for your nursing research paper, it is important to choose a topic that aligns with current trends or gaps in knowledge in the nursing field.

How do I conduct a literature review for my nursing research?

To conduct a literature review for your nursing research, you need to utilize databases, scholarly journals, and reputable sources to gather relevant literature. Analyzing and critically evaluating the studies will provide insights into the strengths, weaknesses, and potential research opportunities in the field.

How do I develop a clear research question and objectives?

To develop a clear research question and objectives, you need to address a specific problem or knowledge gap in the nursing field. Seek input from mentors or colleagues to refine your research approach.

How do I design and conduct the study for my nursing research?

To design and conduct the study for your nursing research, you need to consider the appropriate research design, determine the data collection methods, and ensure ethical considerations are addressed.

How do I structure and write my nursing research paper?

To structure and write your nursing research paper, you need to include an introduction, methodology section, findings, and discussion. Present the data clearly and concisely using appropriate visuals. Conclude with a summary of key findings and recommendations for future research.

What are the ethical considerations in nursing research?

Ethical considerations in nursing research include participant rights, confidentiality, informed consent, and data protection . These should be addressed in the methodology section of the research paper.

How do I analyze the data for my nursing research?

To analyze the data for your nursing research, you need to apply appropriate analytical tools and techniques, depending on the nature of the study. This can involve statistical analysis or qualitative analysis methods.

Why is it important to incorporate nursing theory and evidence-based practice?

Incorporating nursing theory and evidence-based practice strengthens the theoretical foundation of the research and enhances the practical implications for nursing practice. It adds credibility and relevance to the research.

Why is collaboration and peer review important in nursing research?

Collaboration and peer review enhance the quality and rigor of nursing research. Seeking feedback from mentors, colleagues, and experts in the field allows for diverse perspectives and critical evaluation, ensuring accuracy and validity.

How can nursing assignment help services assist with research papers?

Nursing assignment help services provide expert guidance and assistance in navigating the complexities of research methodology. They can offer tailored support for writing and comprehension challenges, enhancing the quality and success of nursing research endeavors.

Jermaine Huey

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Nursing: How to Write a Literature Review

• Traditional or Narrative Literature Review

Getting started

1. start with your research question, 2. search the literature, 3. read & evaluate, 4. finalize results, 5. write & revise, brainfuse online tutoring and writing review.

• RESEARCH HELP

The best way to approach your literature review is to break it down into steps.  Remember, research is an iterative process, not a linear one.  You will revisit steps and revise along the way.  Get started with the handout, information, and tips from various university Writing Centers below that provides an excellent overview.  Then move on to the specific steps recommended on this page.

• UNC- Chapel Hill Writing Center Literature Review Handout, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Writing Center Learn how to write a review of literature, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• University of Toronto-- Writing Advice The Literature Review: A few tips on conducting it, from the University of Toronto.
• Begin with a topic.
• Understand the topic. 
• Familiarize yourself with the terminology.  Note what words are being used and keep track of these for use as database search keywords. 
• See what research has been done on this topic before you commit to the topic.  Review articles can be helpful to understand what research has been done .
• Develop your research question.  (see handout below)
• How comprehensive should it be? 
• Is it for a course assignment or a dissertation? 
• How many years should it cover?
• Developing a good nursing research question Handout. Reviews PICO method and provides search tips.

Your next step is to construct a search strategy and then locate & retrieve articles.

•  There are often 2-4 key concepts in a research question.
• Search for primary sources (original research articles.)
• These are based on the key concepts in your research question.
• Remember to consider synonyms and related terms.
• Which databases to search?
• What limiters should be applied (peer-reviewed, publication date, geographic location, etc.)?

Review articles (secondary sources)

Use to identify literature on your topic, the way you would use a bibliography.  Then locate and retrieve the original studies discussed in the review article. Review articles are considered secondary sources.

• Once you have some relevant articles, review reference lists to see if there are any useful articles.
• Which articles were written later and have cited some of your useful articles?  Are these, in turn, articles that will be useful to you? 
• Keep track of what terms you used and what databases you searched. 
• Use database tools such as save search history in EBSCO to help.
• Keep track of the citations for the articles you will be using in your literature review. 
• Use RefWorks or another method of tracking this information. 
• Database Search Strategy Worksheet Handout. How to construct a search.
• TUTORIAL: How to do a search based on your research question This is a self-paced, interactive tutorial that reviews how to construct and perform a database search in CINAHL.

The next step is to read, review, and understand the articles.

• Start by reviewing abstracts. 
• Make sure you are selecting primary sources (original research articles).
• Note any keywords authors report using when searching for prior studies.
• You will need to evaluate and critique them and write a synthesis related to your research question.
• Consider using a matrix to organize and compare and contrast the articles . 
• Which authors are conducting research in this area?  Search by author.  
• Are there certain authors’ whose work is cited in many of your articles?  Did they write an early, seminal article that is often cited?
• Searching is a cyclical process where you will run searches, review results, modify searches, run again, review again, etc. 
• Critique articles.  Keep or exclude based on whether they are relevant to your research question.
• When you have done a thorough search using several databases plus Google Scholar, using appropriate keywords or subject terms, plus author’s names, and you begin to find the same articles over and over.
• Remember to consider the scope of your project and the length of your paper.  A dissertation will have a more exhaustive literature review than an 8 page paper, for example.
• What are common findings among each group or where do they disagree? 
• Identify common themes. Identify controversial or problematic areas in the research. 
• Use your matrix to organize this.
• Once you have read and re-read your articles and organized your findings, you are ready to begin the process of writing the literature review.

2. Synthesize.  (see handout below)

• Include a synthesis of the articles you have chosen for your literature review.
• A literature review is NOT a list or a summary of what has been written on a particular topic. 
• It analyzes the articles in terms of how they relate to your research question. 
• While reading, look for similarities and differences (compare and contrast) among the articles.  You will create your synthesis from this.
• Synthesis Examples Handout. Sample excerpts that illustrate synthesis.

Regis Online students have access to Brainfuse. Brainfuse is an online tutoring service available through a link in Moodle. Meet with a tutor in a live session or submit your paper for review.

• Brainfuse Tutoring and Writing Assistance for Regis Online Students by Tricia Reinhart Last Updated Oct 26, 2023 81 views this year
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Common Assignments: Writing in Nursing

Although there may be some differences in writing expectations between disciplines, all writers of scholarly work are required to follow basic writing standards such as writing clear, concise, and grammatically correct sentences; using proper punctuation; demonstrating critical thought; and, in all Walden programs, using APA style. When writing in nursing, however, students must also be familiar with the goals of the discipline and discipline-specific writing expectations.

Nurses are primarily concerned about providing quality care to patients and their families, and this demands both technical knowledge and the appropriate expression of ideas (“Writing in nursing,” n.d). As a result, nursing students are expected to learn how to present information succinctly, and even though they may often use technical medical terminology (“Writing in nursing,” n.d.), their work should be accessible to anyone who may read it. Among many goals, writers within this discipline are required to:

• Document knowledge/research
• Demonstrate critical thinking
• Express creative ideas
• Explore nursing literature
• Demonstrate understanding of learning activities. (Wagner, n.d., para. 2)

Given this broad set of objectives, nursing students would benefit from learning how to write diverse literature, including scholarly reports, reviews, articles, and so on. They should aim to write work that can be used in both the research and clinical aspects of the discipline. Walden instructors often ask nursing students to write position and reflective papers, critique articles, gather and analyze data, respond to case studies, and work collaboratively on a project. Although there may be differences between the writing expectations within the classroom and those in the workplace, the standards noted below, though more common in scholarly writing, require skills that are transferrable to the work setting.

Because one cannot say everything there is to say about a particular subject, writers present their work from a particular perspective. For instance, one might choose to examine the shortage of nurses from a public policy perspective. One’s particular contribution, position, argument, or viewpoint is commonly referred to as the thesis and, according to Gerring et al. (2004), a good thesis is one that is “new, true, and significant” (p. 2). To strengthen a thesis, one might consider presenting an argument that goes against what is currently accepted within the field while carefully addressing counterarguments and adequately explaining why the issue under consideration matters (Gerring et al., 2004). The thesis is particularly important because readers want to know whether the writer has something new or worthwhile to say about the topic. Thus, as you review the literature, before writing, it is important to find gaps and creative linkages between viewpoints with the goal of contributing innovative ideas to an ongoing discussion. For a contribution to be worthwhile you must read the literature carefully and without bias; doing this will enable you to identify some of the subtle differences in the viewpoints presented by different authors and help you to better identify the gaps in the literature. Because the thesis is essentially the heart of your discussion, it is important that it is argued objectively and persuasively.

With the goal of providing high quality care, the healthcare industry places a premium on rigorous research as the foundation for evidence-based practices. Thus, students are expected to keep up with the most current research in their field and support the assertions they make in their work with evidence from the literature. Nursing students also must learn how to evaluate evidence in nursing literature and identify the studies that answer specific clinical questions (Oermann & Hays, 2011). Writers are also expected to critically analyze and evaluate studies and assess whether findings can be used in clinical practice (Beyea & Slattery, 2006). (Some useful and credible sources include journal articles, other peer-reviewed sources, and authoritative sources that might be found on the web. If you need help finding credible sources contact a librarian.)

Like other APA style papers, research papers in nursing should follow the following format: title, abstract, introduction, literature review, method, results, discussion, references, and appendices (see APA 7, Sections 2.16-2.25). Note that the presentation follows a certain logic: In the introduction one presents the issue under consideration; in the literature review, one presents what is already known about the topic (thus providing a context for the discussion), identifies gaps, and presents one’s approach; in the methods section, one would then identify the method used to gather data; and in the results and discussion sections, one then presents and explains the results in an objective manner, noting the limitations of the study (Dartmouth Writing Program, 2005). Note that not all papers need to be written in this manner; for guidance on the formatting of a basic course paper, see the appropriate template on our website.

In their research, nursing researchers use quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. In quantitative studies, researchers rely primarily on quantifiable data; in qualitative studies, they use data from interviews or other types of narrative analyses; and in mixed methods studies, they use both qualitative and quantitative approaches. A researcher should be able to pose a researchable question and identify an appropriate research method. Whatever method the researcher chooses, the research must be carried out in an objective and scientific manner, free from bias. Keep in mind that your method will have an impact on the credibility of your work, so it is important that your methods are rigorous. Walden offers a series of research methods courses to help students become familiar with the various research methods.

Instructors expect students to master the content of the discipline and use discipline- appropriate language in their writing. In practice, nurses may be required to become familiar with standardized nursing language as it has been found to lead to the following:

• better communication among nurses and other health care providers,
• increased visibility of nursing interventions,
• improved patient care,
• enhanced data collection to evaluate nursing care outcomes,
• greater adherence to standards of care, and
• facilitated assessment of nursing competency. (Rutherford, 2008)

Like successful writers in other disciplines and in preparation for diverse roles within their fields, in their writing nursing students should demonstrate that they (a) have cultivated the thinking skills that are useful in their discipline, (b) are able to communicate professionally, and (c) can incorporate the language of the field in their work appropriately (Colorado State University, 2011).

If you have content-specific questions, be sure to ask your instructor. The Writing Center is available to help you present your ideas as effectively as possible.

Beyea, S. C., & Slattery, M. J. (2006). Evidence-based practice in nursing: A guide to successful implementation . http://www.hcmarketplace.com/supplemental/3737_browse.pdf

Colorado State University. (2011). Why assign WID tasks? http://wac.colostate.edu/intro/com6a1.cfm

Dartmouth Writing Program. (2005). Writing in the social sciences . http://www.dartmouth.edu/~writing/materials/student/soc_sciences/write.shtml

Rutherford, M. (2008). Standardized nursing language: What does it mean for nursing practice? [Abstract]. Online Journal of Issues in Nursing , 13 (1). http://ojin.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ThePracticeofProfessionalNursing/Health-IT/StandardizedNursingLanguage.html

Wagner, D. (n.d.). Why writing matters in nursing . https://www.svsu.edu/nursing/programs/bsn/programrequirements/whywritingmatters/

Writing in nursing: Examples. (n.d.). http://www.technorhetoric.net/7.2/sectionone/inman/examples.html

Didn't find what you need? Email us at [email protected] .

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Writing clinical articles: A step-by-step guide for nurses

Focus on your audience and narrow your topic. .

Editor’s note: Dissemination 101 is a series designed to help nurses share their expertise. To read other articles in the series, visit myamericannurse.com/category/dissemination-101 . 

• Writing for publication allows you to contribute to nursing practice and help build nursing and healthcare knowledge.
• Taking a step-by-step approach to writing a clinical article can help increase the chances for acceptance.

Are you thinking about writing a clinical article for publication? You can write for a general interest nursing journal that addresses a broad audience or a specialty journal that caters to nurses focused on caring for a specific patient population (for example, oncology or wound care). Most clinical articles published in general interest journals aim to help nurses understand the clinical presentation and progression of a disease or health issue and the subsequent care for a specific patient population.

To increase your chances of article acceptance for publication, take a step-by-step approach, as recommended by Mee.

Start with what you know

Write about what you’re most familiar with. Are you working on a hemodialysis unit and recently managed a patient who experienced a cardiovascular event? Then consider writing about managing cardiovascular emergencies in this patient population. Are you an endoscopy nurse who works with patients receiving endoscopic retrograde cho­lan­giopancreatography? Focus your article on the nursing implications of caring for patients after this test.

Strive to keep your topic focused so you can control manuscript length and ensure you deliver relevant content to the reader. For example, an article about caring for patients with pancreatic disorders is too broad. A narrower-focus article might cover cystic fibrosis, specifically on the impact of this condition on health-related quality of life. You can narrow the topic further by a concentrating on adolescents.

Solo vs. team writing

Are you going to write alone or with a team? Pros and cons exist for each. When writing alone, you may have better control of your timeline and content. However, compared to writing with a team, you might miss an opportunity to present a more diverse perspective of the topic. Another advantage of writing with a team includes having more access to resources, including a network of colleagues to interview. With a team, you can distribute the work among the authors and even have more proofreaders. However, delays may arise if one team member lags behind schedule or conflict emerges within the group. When writing with a team, establish authorship early in the process. The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors developed a set of four criteria to establish authorship: authors should make substantial contributions to the manuscript, draft or revise it, have final approval of the published version, and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Journal selection

Before selecting a journal, establish your intended audience. For example, are you writing for staff nurses, clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, or nurse midwives? Write for the selected audience, keeping in mind what they already know about the topic.

Now you can narrow your journal choices to those that are a good match for your topic and intended audience. You can expect immediate rejection if your manuscript doesn’t match a journal’s purpose and readership. Read at least three to four issues, and explore the table of contents for similar articles related to your topic. An article on a disease or condition similar to your topic doesn’t necessarily make yours ineligible for publication. Your topic may have a different focus.

After you select the target journal, carefully read the author guidelines, which usually can be found on the journal’s website. Follow directions for formatting the manuscript, and comply with page or word limitations. Consider querying the journal editor before submitting your manuscript (in fact, many journals require this step). Querying can help ensure your topic is appropriate for the journal. In addition, the editor may provide feedback to help you focus the manuscript accordingly before submission.

Article type

Elements of a clinical review article.

Clinical review articles typically include the following sections:

• Etiology. The cause or origin of the disease.
• Pathophysiology. The pathologic and physiologic processes associated with the disease.
• Epidemiology. Discussion of disease frequency (number of new cases in a given population) or prevalence (number of cases present at a point in time).
• Clinical presentation. What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?
• Diagnostics. This includes relevant tests and normal and abnormal laboratory values.
• Treatment and interventions. Depending on the journal guidelines, this section might include medications, medical and nursing procedures, and key nursing considerations.
• Patient education. This section focuses on key points for patient education. If your article discusses best practices in your setting, consider including a patient education handout that can be incorporated into any organization.
• Nursing implications. Includes the nursing process from assessment to interventions and outcomes. Some journals want a separate section devoted to nursing implications.

Case studies 

Most nurses are familiar with case studies, first from learning how to write them in nursing school and then in clinical practice when reading progress notes. If you’re a novice writer, you’ll find reading case studies in journals to be helpful.

Published case studies can evolve from real case reports or be a simulated, fictional case. If you choose to write about a real case, obtain permission from the patient and your organization. Although the patient’s identity will be concealed in your article, you may run the risk of readers identifying the patient. Also, don’t choose a case that’s so rare that the reader may never encounter such a situation.

Case studies typically begin with the patient’s health history followed by a discussion of the common clinical presentation, pathophysiology, nursing process, psychosocial considerations, and treatments. Keep in mind that you’re using the case to teach readers, not merely reporting what you experienced.

How-to articles 

How-to articles focus on teaching a skill, procedure, or intervention. For example, caring for patients with a colostomy, proning patients with COVID-19 who haven’t been intubated, or attending to patients after cardiac catheterization. When writing a how-to article, focus on what’s most meaningful to nurses who provide direct care, such as patient and family education, and cite evidence-based recommendations.

Do your research

A fundamental motto for writing is “Read. Read. Read. Write. Write. Write.” In other words, do your research. When you read a wide range of literature on your topic, including relevant nursing models or theories, and access key databases, you’ll soon be ready to write. Organize your notes (paper or digital) and maintain a complete and accurate account of your references, which should be as current as possible.

Create an outline

Use an outline to organize your thoughts and help you stick to one main focus or purpose that’s appropriate for the intended audience. At this stage, you’ll also want to consider what information can be best covered in tables or figures rather than in text. For example, you can create a table that lists signs and symptoms in column one and related pathophysiology in column two. Such a table can effectively present a large amount of information that doesn’t need to be repeated in the text of the article.

Writing and editing

Knowing where to start can be daunting. Consider starting on the section you know best or one for which you have the most information to help build your confidence and spur development of other sections. Other writing tips that can enhance the chances your article will be accepted for publication and engage readers include the following:

• Passive: The patient’s medications were reviewed by the nurse before discharge.
• Active: The nurse reviewed the medications with the patient before discharge.
• Cite relevant references. Support statistics and practice guidelines with appropriate recent references. Follow the journal’s author guidelines for number of references and style.

After completing your manuscript, let a day or two pass and then read it again and start editing. Note that your overall goal during editing is to make the manuscript concise and meaningful for the reader. Check that it aligns with the journal’s author guidelines and requirements. Ask colleagues (including an expert, novice, or someone who’s not familiar with your topic) to read your manuscript, and request their honest feedback. Review tables, figures, and other graphics to ensure they provide relevant information and that they adhere to the journal’s author guidelines. Consider including a box with key points, such as nursing implications.

Follow the journal’s article submission guidelines. Some journals request submission through an author portal that requires you to create an author account, while others prefer to receive submissions via email. Most journals require that you attach a cover letter, sign copyright release and conflict-of-interest forms, and submit information about all authors.

Advance nursing practice and science

When you publish, you contribute to nursing practice and help build nursing and healthcare knowledge by providing guidance for practitioners and future researchers. Regardless of the type of article, include implications for nursing practice and, when appropriate, education, policy, and research. Writing involves hard work, but it’s rewarding and a great way to build your credentials.

Rhoda Redulla is director of nursing excellence and Magnet Recognition at NewYork-Presbyterian in New York, New York, associate editor of Gastroenterology Nursing Journal, and author of Fast Facts for Making the Most of Your Career in Nursing . 

Eldh AC, Almost J, DeCorby-Watson K, et al Clinical interventions, implementation interventions, and the potential greyness in between – a discussion paper. BMC Health Serv Res. 2017;17(1):16. doi:10.1186/s12913-016-1958-5

International Committee of Medical Journal Editors. Defining the role of authors and contributors.

Mee C. Writing the clinical article. In: Saver C ed. Anatomy of Writing for Publication for Nurses. 4th ed. Indianapolis, IN: Sigma; 2021.

Morton P, Ketefian S, Redman R. Writing the research report. In: Saver C, ed. Anatomy of Writing for Publication for Nurses. 4th ed. Indianapolis, IN: Sigma; 2021.

Oermann MH, Ingles TM. Writing manuscripts about quality improvement: Squire 2.0 and beyond. Health. April 30, 2019.

Roush K. What types of articles to write. Am J Nurs. 2017;117(5):68-71. doi:10.1097/01.NAJ.0000516278.97098.02

2 Comments . Leave new

I could have used this when I was writing articles years ago. Excellent resource

Thank you for this helpful article. I believe that when we publish good articles, we help healthcare providers to give a high quality of care to patients. I encourage all knowledgeable healthcare to write and publish many articles in order to help others for the betterment of patients. Thank you

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Writing a Thesis for Nursing School

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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Writing a thesis presents an opportunity for graduate students to conduct scholarly inquiry, with the potential of publishing their finished paper. A thesis requires nursing students to identify a problem in nursing, and review academic literature while developing advanced research skills. Thesis advisors and committees guide students from the proposal phase to the final oral defense, a process that spans about two semesters.

Not every nursing student is required to complete a thesis. Some nursing programs offer a non-thesis option, in which candidates complete a final capstone project or oral examination on topics such as nursing theories and clinical practices.

The thesis process and requirements vary by school. Ohio State University’s master of science in nursing program’s final examination includes oral and written portions.

Want to know what to expect during the thesis process? Read on to learn how you can choose a thesis topic and orally defend your paper.

Choosing Your Nursing Thesis Topic

Nursing students must choose a thesis topic before they begin the research and writing process, typically within the first two terms of nursing school. A solid thesis must present an original argument, manageable research scope, and worthy academic pursuit. A thesis advisor or research professor will help to guide each student through the process of choosing a topic.

In the conceptual phase, candidates research potential thesis topics based on their interests within their nursing specialty. Students may start with a broad topic such as obesity and weight management, depression, or cardiovascular disease. To narrow their thesis argument, graduate students might focus on racial or ethnic groups, socio-economic issues, or current events.

After settling on a topic, students draft and submit a thesis proposal to an advisor or committee chair. Once this proposal has been approved, students can begin the formal work on his or her approved thesis topic.

While graduate students must complete a thesis to fulfill the requirements of a master’s degree in nursing, the thesis process also offers a chance for future nurses to immerse themselves in current academic literature and collaborate with fellow graduate students, faculty, and professors. A thesis can also serve as the foundation for doctoral studies. A thesis at the doctoral (PhD) level is called a dissertation.

Completing Your Nursing Thesis

Brainstorming a thesis topic begins as early as the first semester of a master’s in nursing program. The formal thesis process, which typically spans multiple terms, does not take place until the student’s final year, usually during the last term.

Thesis requirements vary by school, and students must meet specific deadlines and take prerequisite courses beforehand. At the University of Texas-Houston’s School of Nursing , candidates take a public health class before they submit a thesis proposal.

Future nurses work under the guidance of a thesis committee and advisor. The experience of writing a thesis trains students in original investigation, data collection, implementing research design, and public speaking. Candidates also learn to flex their analytical thinking skills and master a specific area of nursing as they develop the ability to analyze and draw conclusions through data.

At a program’s conclusion, students submit their thesis as a bound manuscript or electronic file. In addition to submitting a written report, students orally defend their final thesis in front of the committee. Many graduates also submit their manuscripts for publication.

Presenting Your Nursing Thesis

Graduate students generally orally defend their proposal and present their completed thesis in front of their committee. This committee also includes the thesis mentor, a faculty member specializing in the nursing discipline of their scholarly inquiry. There are generally 3 total committee members on a thesis committee.

Fellow graduate students or consultants outside of the college may attend presentations, if the process is open to the public. Otherwise, the thesis defense remains a private session, with students presenting their findings. The oral examination of the thesis takes up to one hour, but can last longer depending on how many questions the committee has for the student.

During that time, the committee evaluates the thesis based on how the research experience has shaped the student’s graduate education and the findings’ significance to the nursing field. When the exam concludes, the committee either accepts or rejects the thesis defense.

How is a Nursing Thesis Graded?

Nursing schools rely on each committee to formally grade each product in the thesis process. Some graduate nursing students may receive a letter grade, while other nursing schools adhere to a “pass” or “fail” policy.

To determine a grade, the committee assesses the thesis based on set criteria. Committee members look at the project’s key components, including the statement of purpose, literature review, research methodology, analysis, findings, and implications. The process and grading criteria for the thesis process can be found in the school’s graduate handbook. Most of these handbooks are published online for student review.

The thesis must identify significant issues or service gaps in nursing and present them in a concise and coherent fashion. Candidates must support all findings and analysis by research and explain the implications for healthcare.

The oral defense also factors into the grade. The committee grades the defense based on the quality of the student’s presentation, taking into consideration if the student spoke clearly and presented a logical and well-organized argument.

What is the Difference Between a Nursing Thesis and a Capstone?

A nursing thesis and a capstone demonstrate the student’s comprehensive knowledge and educational journey. Graduate students in a non-research track may have the choice of completing a clinical project. Doctoral of Nursing ( DNP ) students complete a capstone project.

Graduate-level nursing students work on an original scholarly inquiry during their thesis, while undergraduates recap their cumulative learning experience. The thesis process, which includes completing nursing courses and writing a proposal, takes place over the entire program.

Learn more about the difference between a thesis and capstone project on this page .

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Writing in Nursing

Writing as a Student

Ely, C., Nicol, M., & Scott, I. (2007). Essential study skills for nursing . Mosby/Elsevier.

Garrard, J. (2017). Health sciences literature review made easy: The matrix method (5th ed.). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett.

Gimenez, J. (2011). Writing for nursing and midwifery students . Palgrave Macmillan.

Lang, T. (2010). How to write, publish, and present in the health sciences: A guide for clinicians and laboratory researchers. Philadelphia, PA: American College of Physicians.

Scullion, P., & Guest, D. (2007). Study skills for nursing and midwifery students. Open University Press.

Roush, K. (2015). A nurse's step-by-step guide to writing your dissertation or capstone. Indianapolis: Sigma Theta Tau International.

Taylor, D.B. (2014). Writing skills in nursing and health care: A guide to completing successful theses and dissertations. London: Sage.

Whitehead, E., & Mason, T. (2008). Study skills for nurses (2nd ed.) London: Sage.

Witte, F. (2003). Basic grammar and usage for medical communicators . Rockville, MD: American Medical Writers Association.

Writing in Nursing : Resources to help nursing students with writing from Purdue OWL.

Literature Searching for Nursing Students : A bibliography of articles on researching and writing literature reviews in nursing, compiled by the Nursing and Allied Health Resource Section of the Medical Library Association.

Writing for Publication

Nurse Author & Editor : A free online journal with articles on writing manuscripts, editing, publishing, and avoiding rejection. Volume 19.2 (March 2009), for example, contains articles on converting a poster into a paper and on writing a PhD proposal. This page lists all of the articles written for authors (as opposed to publishers or editors). See also their free e-book, listed below. Note: You will need to register with the website to view articles.

Webb, C. (2008). Writing for publication . Wiley-Blackwell. A free e-book posted on Nurse Author & Editor’s website that covers writing for publication; writing review articles, clinical articles, and research papers; presenting tables and figures; publishing a thesis; writing style; finishing touches such as the abstract; impact factor; and copyright.

Fondiller, S. (1999). The writer’s workbook: Health professionals’ guide to getting published (2nd ed.). New York: Jones & Bartlett.

Oermann, M. H. (2016). Writing for publication in nursing (3rd ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Press.

Saver, C. (2017). Anatomy of writing for publication for nurses (3rd ed.). Indianapolis, IN: Sigma Theta Tau International.

Writing on the Job

Turnbul, A. (2001). Plain words for nurses: Writing and communicating effectively . London: The Foundation of Nursing Studies.

Writing to Get a Job

Nursing Samples and Resources : Examples of resumes, cover letters, thank-you letters and interview questions, by and for nurses at the University of California, San Francisco.

Resources for International Students

Allum, V., & McGarr, P. (2008). Cambridge English for nursing: Intermediate. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Bosher, S. D. (2008). English for nursing, academic skills (2nd ed.). Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan Press. (for advanced English learners)

Graf, J. (2008). Handbook of biomedical research writing . Hanyang University Online Writing Lab. Written for Korean scientists in the biomedical sciences, this handbook covers writing journal article and clinical case reports.

McCullagh, M., & Wright, R. (2008). Good practice: Communication skills in English for the medical practitioner . Cambridge: CUP.

Ribes, R., & Ros, P. R. (2006). Medical English . Springer: New York.

Quann, S., & Satin, D. (2007). Project care: Health care case studies, multimedia, and projects for practicing English . Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan Press.

To report a broken link, please email us at [email protected] .

A Complete Guide To Writing Nursing Paper For Medical Students

Medical students have to endure countless hardships during their tenure in the college. Among them, the difficult one is writing a nursing paper on a topic related to their field. It’s not just about composing words after going through the research. It relates to their future learning and demonstrating professionalism in their nursing career.

Don’t worry if this explanation seems daunting or a deal-breaker! Today, we will embark on a journey to understand this topic deeply from within. We will learn why these nursing topics are so complicated and how we can write them without any trouble. Furthermore, we will discuss the importance of evidence-based practice for nursing students. The bonus will be the medical topics that are sure to broaden the extent of your knowledge. Without further ado, let’s get ready!

Table of Contents

What Is a Nursing Paper? (What’s All The Fuss About)

A nursing paper is an assignment given to medical students to develop their understanding of clinical practices. They go through the topic under the strict guidelines from the American School of Nursing & Allied Health. By doing this, they collect vital information related to this field and equip themselves with practical knowledge prior to starting a professional career.

Since it’s a critical care profession that revolves around saving human lives, therefore it requires mistake-free decision-making. Every nursing professional must be equipped with nerves of steel because they cannot perform their job without it. Nursing assignments tend to challenge the student’s comfort zone and take them out of it. That’s why these learners require nursing paper writing service to complete their assignments appropriately.

Different Types of Nursing Papers

There are different types of nursing papers for medical students depending on the discipline they choose. Like medical science that has various branches, similarly, nursing has many types that are explained below.

• Pediatric Nursing
• Geriatric Nursing
• Medical Nursing
• Nephrology Nursing
• Hepatology Nursing
• Ophthalmology Nursing
• Endocrinology Nursing
• Neurology Nursing
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Orthopedic Nursing
• Pulmonology Nursing
• Oncology Nursing
• Radiology Nursing
• Dental Nursing
• Emergency Nursing
• Dermatology Nursing

How to Write a Nursing Research Paper?

It’s not easy to write a nursing paper without appropriate professional tips . Each word of nursing students is critically examined with a critical eye. They need to understand the subject and patient care that will be provided later in their profession. 

Let’s start learning the basics of writing a nursing assignment from scratch. It will be the best guide you’ll ever get in your career.

Understand the Prompt and Requirements

The first step that every student overlooks is not understanding the assignment prompt. A half-hearted look at the essay prompt is bad for your grades. If a student doesn’t understand or read what the assignment or their professor wants from them, it’s impossible to make it as required from them.

Secondly, every assignment has some requirements, such as making it on a specific disease or patient type. Similarly, your professor might want to assess your knowledge on the latest nursing guidelines or new major breakthroughs in patient care, etc. Here’s how you can improve your practices by following these steps:

• Don’t just read your prompt but chew on it. Read at least three times to have knowledge from all perspectives.
• Ask your professor promptly before you start your assignment blindly
• Evaluate your skills in comparison with the demands of the topic
• In case where you feel it will overwhelm you, ask your professor to change the subject.
• Many students who have pre-existing phobias such as hemophobia should avoid such topics that discuss blood or anything related to its types. 
• If you’re more interested in patient education than direct patient care, then you should discuss this with your professor to assign you topics related to that discipline.

Understanding the requirements also helps your professor to make an accurate judgment about your work. Since your task is about how you’ll cope with real-world pressure when helping or caring for patients, you must demonstrate your best skills at your subject. 

Choose a Nursing Research Paper Topic

The second step is choosing a topic that helps you present your stance on a subject. Whether it’s a topic you’ve been given or choose, it has to justify your skills and capabilities as a certified nurse or medical practitioner. Your subject should be broad and can accommodate new research or findings to modify guidelines or challenge the existing ones.

In picking a topic, students must remember to do this process by targeting a niche that helps them navigate in one direction rather than all over the place. Subject selection is difficult if you’re doing it on your own, especially for new students. It’s a time-consuming one. To overcome your shortcomings in this part, you should brainstorm for the topics that excite not only you but also your audience.

Secondly, for subject selection, you can explore new books, medical journals or articles related to nursing and patient care. Since patient care is a discipline that’s evolving continuously, therefore choosing a topic that talks about best nursing practices may take the crown. Here we will present an example of a topic related to nursing that may help you in this process:

Nursing care in Type-1 Diabetics

Having a topic that has plenty of research available will help you broaden your investigation into a multi-faceted one. If you choose a topic that can only accommodate narrow or single-sided research, it’s better to choose a new one. Your subject is your hallmark so you must choose one that helps you expand your knowledge base and skill set. After the selection of the topic, you should move on to the research section.

Start Your Investigation

Research in nursing paper is pivotal to your success. To start your investigation into your topic, you must take a deep dive into reading books to gather credible sources. A research can be divided into two or three sections depending on the nature of the investigation and requirements. Here we will discuss the research methods that students will employ in making their nursing papers .

Research Methods For Nursing Papers

The first step for students is to gather primary sources of research methods. This part includes reading books, journals, and articles directly related to your topic and its outcomes. Since it’s the most valuable part of your investigation, you should give it ample time for appropriate evidence collection. Primary research sources are the ones that are written by doctors or physicians, medical experts etc. Adding these pieces of evidence makes your assignment paper strong and authentic.

In cases where it’s impossible to acquire primary data, you may gather secondary research sources. Secondary sources or evidence is the one that is based on primary evidence, reviews, interviews and expert’s opinion are its examples.

Sometimes your topic requires you to add secondary evidence to support primary research or evidence. This is known as consolidating your arguments in academic practices. So it’s essential to add both research sources in your nursing paper.

For higher education in nursing subjects where they are working alongside medical professionals, adding tertiary sources of research is a plus. Your three-way research supports your arguments and covers all the logic to strengthen your stance on the subject.

After you collect primary, secondary and tertiary sources of research, organize them according to their category. This way you’ll know where to use these evidences and understand their effective usage.

Develop Your Thesis Statement

Researching provides you with ground for developing your thesis statement . Your thesis sentence is your short research-based answer on your research question. Without doing a good research, you won’t be able to compose it. After having sufficient information, you may narrow down the answer into a few lines. Your entire paper will be based on it. In making a thesis statement, do remember the following points:

• It should be between one or a maximum two lines
• Make it using persuasive words so your readers can grab the core idea without going through the entire content
• Place your thesis statement in the introduction paragraph
• Your entire paper must be based on your premise statement. Every argument and evidence should point to it.

After developing a thesis statement, you may start working on your paper’s content. A thesis sentence example may look like this if you’re working on your nursing paper.

“IDF (International Diabetes Federation) and ADA (American Diabetes Association) both agree that Type-2 Diabetics have three-fold risk of developing “Nephropathy” within five years of diagnosis”.

By following the above example, you can easily make a premise statement for your paper.

Write the Introduction Paragraph

The introduction part is where you need to make a difference. It’s the first writing part of your paper that will be seen and read by your professors and peers. Therefore, it must be good and thought-provoking. A nursing essay’s introduction contains three parts, a hook sentence, background information and a thesis statement. These parts of the intro’s outline are essential and help you present your opinion on the topic.

A hook sentence is the first sentence at the start of the paper and captures your reader’s attention quickly. It can be a quote, fact, historical information or thought-provoking statement. Its primary job is to make your readers stay on the page so they feel excited about the information you added in the paper.

Background information is where you provide information related to your topic’s history. Here you must inform your audience about the existence of the problem and the need for a solution. With historical context, it’s easy for your readers to understand the issue and show interest in finding its solution.

The last part is a thesis statement that we already talked about and it will be placed after providing a background to your readers. Let’s have a look at a nursing paper introduction example on “Diabetes”.

“According to the IDF (International Diabetes Federation) 90% of diabetics are suffering from CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease). From 1812 diabetes was classified as a disease but there was no information available related to its treatment and onset. In 1979 the classification and its mechanism was understood by physicians in America and the UK. Now diabetes is the leading cause of ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) around the world with more than 10 million deaths every year”.

Add Your Arguments in Body Paragraph(s)

The body part is where you must add your arguments and its supporting evidence. Your academic challenges start here and end here. An immaculate body paragraph guarantees your dominance over the subject under discussion. Medical students need to structure their papers in a specific, organized form that helps them convey their opinions.

Academic learners may start the body paragraph of their nursing assignment with a topic sentence that summarizes the entire content in one line. By reading this sentence, your audience knows what’s inside the paragraph and its content.

Key Points to Remember while composing body section

• Topic sentence should start your paragraph and must be relatable to your thesis statement.
• After writing this sentence, break it down and explain each point with evidence.
• Evidence that you’ve collected from books, journals, articles or online videos must be mentioned here. You must back your argument with this evidence collected from the sources mentioned above.
• Presenting evidence is not as important as analyzing it and proving your point. You might want to challenge the findings. Hence you must present your analysis on it.
• If you have plenty of evidence, add them one by one and comment on them similarly.
• Use transitions to connect two different ideas or continuation of your narrative.

Have a look at a mock example of a nursing research paper for a better understanding:

“Since the 1960s diabetes has caused a rapid increase in mortality and comorbidity in patients. On average, diabetics live 15 to 20 years less than non-diabetics. ADA (American Diabetes Association) conducted a study in 2001 that provides mean results that prove Diabetics live 8 years less than non-diabetics. Diabetes is the biggest reason for MI (Myocardial Infarction) and ACD (Acute Coronary Disease).

Moreover, Diabetes costs American insurance companies more than 25$ Billion every year in treatments. With continuous evolution in diagnostics and biotechnology in detecting early onset, diabetes is spreading rapidly. IDF (International Diabetes Federation) has predicted that by 2030, there will be a 12% increase in patients suffering from diabetes.

While many healthcare governing bodies like WHO, IDF, EASD and ADA are doing their best, it’s still not enough. UKPDS and ADVANCE-ON studies have shown quantitative results in which the majority of diabetics have no or less information regarding their disease. These results highlight the importance and value a “Diabetes Educator” can play in spreading valuable information to patients.

The benefits of a medical check-up with your physician are important, but a home visit by a diabetes educator can help in overcoming this pandemic. In France, it’s mandatory for patients to have a weekly home appointment with an educator. That’s a primary reason France has seen a 13% decline in hospitalization of diabetics in 2013.

Based on the above discussion, we can safely conclude that Diabetes is a global pandemic. Healthcare bodies are doing their best to curb its damages by issuing new guidelines and approval of new medicines such as “Semaglutide” , “DPP4” inhibitors and “Sulfonylureas”.  Along with physicians, diabetes educators can prevent the severity and further complications of this disease.

Add a Conclusion

A conclusion summarizes the paper’s discussion in one paragraph by a few techniques that we will mention here. To start a nursing assignment’s conclusion, you must restate your thesis statement and provide a connection between the intro, body and its ending. 

Secondly, a summary of the main discussion provides your audience with an overview of the entire story. Even if they missed an important point of the topic, they can read it in the summary of the main points. A conclusion provides you an opportunity for a last chance to persuade your readers and convince them of your stance. 

Common mistakes that might make your concluding paragraph powerless are mentioned below:

• Using repetitive words, same as used in the above paragraphs.
• Don’t force your audience but persuade them through evidence and their significance.
• Use new words but don’t change your narrative because changing the narrative will also change the context.
• A closing statement should not be your thesis statement but your personal opinion based on your research. Avoid repetition in making this part redundant.

An example of a mock conclusion

“In this paper we have seen multiple results that point to premature deaths in diabetics regardless of the medication used. Diabetes does result in complications like nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, macro and micro vascular complications. Role of primary care physicians, endocrinologists and diabetes educators is more important than anyone else. By making mandatory home visits, diabetes educators can help in managing diabetes and informing patients on the consequences of this disease.” 

Student attendants can follow this example and effortlessly write amazing research in nursing paper.

Choosing Appropriate Citation Style

The last part of writing a nursing research paper is choosing the appropriate citation style. This format style guides you on how to cite sources you’ve collected in APA or MLA. The most commonly used citation format is APA (American Psychological Association) and then MLA (Modern Language Association).

Nursing Papers Unveiled: Impact and Significance

Students need to understand the academic importance of nursing papers. These assignments played a significant role in their medical understanding and development of professionalism. Let’s discuss this topic thoroughly:

Importance of Nursing Papers in Student’s Life

Medical assignments are the most important factor in a student’s life. They help develop thoughts and provide opportunities to research and understand disease and its treatment. An assignment for medical nursing students plays the following role in their lives.

• Providing hands-on experience in understanding the subject matter from a practitioner’s point of view.
• It provides them with in-depth information on a particular topic and lets them brainstorm.
• Promotes medical knowledge that will be pivotal in their clinical practices and patient care.
• Enhancing problem solutions without wasting time.
• Understanding the critical needs of patients and managing them appropriately.
• Preparing students beforehand so they perform better in real-world or healthcare practice.
• Finding better treatment prophylaxis and helping in the continual improvement of medical care.
• Working with Medical Specialists and learning from their experiences

These are some of the important roles these medical assignments play in students’ lives.

Exploring Trending Nursing Paper Topics

If you’re searching for the best subjects for your nursing assignment, end your search here. Thoroughly check this list and choose any one of your likings that fulfills the criteria.

20+ Interesting Nursing Paper Topics

• Managing patients in an oncology ward
• Treatment for ACS (Acute Coronary Syndrome)
• How to care for a first-degree burn patient?
• Metabolic acidosis in CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) patients
• Five basic rules of blood transfusion
• Treatment prophylaxis for skin lesions
• Protocols for Covid-19 patients
• Use of PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) in medical facility
• Fundamentals of Dialysis Center
• DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) and its protocols of treatment
• Snake bites and use of anti-venom in standing urgent care and medical emergency
• Food poisoning and its treatment
• Supervision of cannabis usage in patients suffering from cancer
• Managing patient care in remote areas
• AIDS and patient care
• Orthopedic patient care and mobility issues
• Misuse of drugs by medical staff
• Responsibilities of nursing staff
• Sexual relationships between nurses 
• Clinical malpractices and how to avoid it
• Inaccurate physician’s assessment and tackling it 
• Rapid plasma glucose checkup
• Treating patients of STD (Sexual Transmitted Disease)
• Needs of rape victims in a healthcare facility
• Psychological support to patients 

Check this out, we have written 200 Nursing topics to help you better understand.

These carefully curated topics will help you find your niche in medical nursing assignments. Help yourself by choosing anyone and make a powerful impact on your class.

Integrating Evidence-Based Practice in Your Paper

It’s vital for students to establish evidence-based practice in nursing papers and create an effective plan to implement them in their work. There are many ways you can achieve the best results by following them:

• Take guidelines from CMDT (Current Medical Treatment & Diagnosis).
• Regularly visit the website of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) for new practice guidelines.
• Apply for membership in the Nursing and Allied Health Resources Section. You can get authentic resources of practice and take notes of them for using them in your assignment.
• Read CDC (Center for Disease Control) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) guidelines on different disease treatment protocols and latest trials.

You can easily apply evidence-based practice in nursing papers by visiting these sources.

Nurturing Ideas: Crafting Pediatric Nursing Papers

Pediatrics is a field of medical science that deals with treating diseases that affect children up to the age of 16 years. It’s the same as treating general patients who are adults but treatment protocols here change due to the less potent immune systems of children and neonates. Similarly, pediatric nursing papers are the backbone of innovation and new drug introduction. Nursing students who like to practice in the pediatric department need to work twice as hard as in the general medicine department.

Additionally, pediatric nursing papers present new challenges, and students must be able to withstand them. A small mistake can have catastrophic outcomes. Hence students are required to do 6 months of supervision work with trained nurses before they are allowed to practice alone.

Guide to Geriatric Nursing Papers

Similar to pediatrics, geriatrics nursing papers are equally challenging. In medical science, geriatrics deals with patients older than 60 or 65 years. These patients require special care because of their age and vulnerability to getting sick quickly due to weaker immune systems.

To make geriatric nursing papers with absolutely no mistakes, students must spend a few hours in this speciality. Students may take notes from their ward visits, review each case and brainstorm for the best treatment and care solutions. Students are more likely to adopt best practices by doing this every day.

Ethics in Nursing Papers: Navigating Moral Dilemmas

Composing medical assignments challenges your skills and knowledge and offers a view for moral perspectives. There are many ethical considerations in nursing papers that students must adhere to. These reservations include the following points:

• Always use scientific data from reputable sources.
• Never claim anything without properly identifying the nature and results of the research.
• Only use sources after getting prior authorization to use them in your nursing paper.
• Patient care always comes first, regardless of the nature or conflicts in medical treatment.
• Always acquiring and using patient data with signed and attested papers for research purposes and informing them of all the intricacies.
• Never copy data or details of other students’ work to use in your research paper unless your professor allows it.

Nursing learners must adhere to these ethical considerations in nursing papers. Following these principles and moralities serve their profession well and make them honest in their work.

Avoid These Mistakes While Writing Your Research Paper on Nursing

Students make many mistakes when they start a research paper on nursing. Some of the common ones are mentioned below:

• Using irrelevant data
• Not doing thorough research
• Not having enough understanding of the disease
• Making assumptions on disease prognosis without evidence
• Using proprietary research without authorization
• Selecting a topic out of discipline or nature of scope
• Using plagiarized content
• Adding disputed research with dubious record
• Non-adherence to academic rules and guidelines provided by your professor

Abstract Writing for Nursing Papers

An abstract is your summary of the entire research, it’s a concise 300 to 600 words section. Nursing paper abstracts are sometimes lengthier than typical research papers. Here is an example of this section:

“Diabetes causes various types of disease that range from macro and micro vascular ones to metabolic. This research paper has acquired data from IDF and EASD and came to a conclusion that more than 80% of patients suffer premature deaths and renal failures. The data acquisition method is quantitative with retrospective diagnosis and diagnostic tests such as eGFR, Random Blood Serum and Fasting Blood Serum Testing kits in use. Majority of the patients have elevated serum glucose level 240 mg/dl or above. eGFR of 92% patients was between 60ml/min that puts them on stage 3 CKD. It’s evident that diabetes causes mortality and renal failure.”

It’s hard for students to compose nursing paper abstracts from scratch. This mock example will help them in the long term.

Perfecting Your Nursing Paper: Editing and Proofreading

Editing and proofreading is the last thing you must consider when making last-minute changes to your content. Polishing your nursing paper helps you present your opinion clearly and concisely without vague statements.

Writing a nursing paper is only possible when students know all the medical details of this profession. Our guide provides you with sufficient medical details related to this subject. Read it carefully, and you’ll be able to create amazing assignments for medical class. This expert’s guide helps to overcome the gaps in this field by allowing students to jump-start the learning process.

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“Writing Right”: A Workshop Approach to Improving Nursing Students’ Writing

Jennifer c. hutchinson.

1 Department of Nursing, Longwood University, Farmville, VA, USA

JoEllen Pederson

2 Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice Studies, Longwood University, Farmville, VA, USA

Introduction

Effective communication is an essential skill for the professional nurse. Previous research demonstrates that nursing students lack skills in written communication, and there is limited time in the nursing curriculum to provide needed instruction. To address this issue, a writing workshop was provided for students at a regional state university.

Nursing faculty developed and led four identical in-person sessions of the workshop over the course of one semester. Before and after each workshop, students completed the same quantitative survey.

Data indicate that students’ knowledge and confidence of American Psychological Association (APA) format increased significantly as a result of the workshop.

A workshop approach is a useful strategy to address the writing needs of nursing students.

Introduction/Background

In The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education , the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) ( 2021 ) describe 10 domains for nursing, which “constitute a descriptive framework for the practice of nursing” (para. 4). Embedded in these domains is the need for nurses to have strong written communication skills. Specifically, Domain 1: Knowledge of Nursing Practice and Domain 4: Scholarship of Nursing Practice reference the importance of research in the nursing profession.

What Was the Problem?

With these domains in mind, one objective of nursing faculty is to improve undergraduates’ communication skills as they increase their nursing knowledge in preparation for entry-to-practice. This is complicated, however, by the extensive curriculum requirements of pre-licensure nursing programs. The challenge becomes how to teach students written communication skills while also staying focused on other essential learning outcomes.

Why Was It a Priority?

Research indicates that nursing faculty commonly find that writing is a significant challenge for students ( Diehl, 2007 ; Troxler et al., 2011 ). Despite this fact, writing skills are not often a focus of instruction in undergraduate nursing education ( Miller et al., 2015 ). This is likely related to the significant volume of discipline-specific content that must be covered to prepare students to be successful on the licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).

Summary of What is Known About the Problem

Recent research in this area relates to various strategies that nurse educators have employed to address this problem. Some of the approaches identified are guided instruction ( Miller et al., 2015 ), use of workshops ( Derouin et al., 2015 ), discipline-specific writing education ( Mitchell et al., 2017 ), and strategies to incorporate writing across the curriculum ( Hawks et al., 2016 ).

Workshops, like the ones discussed in this paper, have successfully been used to improve writing skills of both nurses and nursing students ( Derouin et al., 2015 ). For example, Johnson et al. (2007) utilized a workshop approach aimed at developing the technical writing skills of underrepresented and disadvantaged baccalaureate nursing students; use of APA reference style was one of the workshop topics. Nursing students learn APA format for several reasons. APA format teaches students to write using professional standards, to read complex research documents systematically, and to give proper credit to authors for academic advancements ( Schwartz et al., 2020 ). In essence, teaching students APA format helps them become proficient communicators of complex information.

Purpose of the Project

In an effort to enhance the writing skills of nursing students, a writing workshop was developed that addressed a specific weakness noted among students across the program: knowledge and use of American Psychological Association (APA) format. Findings indicate APA workshops improve students’ confidence and ability to use APA format. Based on faculty experiences, a national nursing organization's recommendation, and previous literature, the question being addressed by this research is: Can a workshop approach improve nursing students’ experience, confidence, and knowledge of APA format?

A quantitative pre-test, post-test questionnaire was developed to measure students’ experience, confidence, and ability in using and understanding APA format. Questions were identical on the pre-test and post-test. While names were not recorded on surveys, each student was given an identification number to put on their survey. Survey participation was voluntary. Pre-test surveys were given immediately prior to the workshop, and post-test surveys were given immediately following the APA workshop.

Interventions

Four identical workshops were offered over the course of one semester. For consistency, the information was presented by the same two nursing faculty members at each workshop. PowerPoint was used to present the content to participants, which consisted of four parts: rationale for using APA format, essential APA paper elements and format, properly crediting works in the text, and constructing the reference list. Workshop days and times varied in an effort to accommodate students’ schedules. Faculty presenters partnered with the university Writing Center staff and enlisted the support of student writing consultants to assist with the workshops. The Writing Center is used by students who seek out help with writing assignments and works based on a peer tutoring model. One or two writing consultants were present and contributed to each session. The sessions were voluntary for students, and interested students signed up to attend one session. Students in this nursing program are required to attend one out-of-class enrichment activity per academic year. The APA workshop counted as that enrichment activity for participants. Therefore, this study is based on a convenience sample of interested nursing majors. There were 175 nursing majors on campus during the spring of 2021. In total, 49 nursing majors participated in the workshops. Of the 49 total participants, there were 34 first-year students, 10 sophomores, and five juniors. No senior participants were included because all senior nursing majors were off campus completing internships. Attendees were predominately female and white and between the ages of 18 and 22 years old, which is reflective of the population of nursing majors at this institution. To be a nursing major, students have to maintain a GPA of 2.75; therefore, all participants in the workshops were in good academic standing.

The 1-hour workshop took place on campus after classes ended for the day, giving students a better opportunity to attend, if they desired. PowerPoint was used to present the information at each workshop. The content consisted of four main parts: rationale for using APA format, essential APA paper elements and format, properly crediting works in the text, and constructing the reference list. Rationale for using APA format included information about scholarly writing, ethical and legal standards, plagiarism and self-plagiarism, and a discussion of the university honor code. Topics covered under the “Essential APA Paper Elements and Format” portion of the presentation included an overview of student papers versus professional papers, required elements of a student paper, heading levels, font, line spacing, margins, and paragraph indentation. Students also learned when to include in-text citations, how to format citations in the body of the paper, how to use direct quotations, and how to cite them. Following the instruction in this portion of the workshop, students were given an opportunity to practice formatting a parenthetical citation and a narrative citation. Lastly, students were given instruction and examples of how to construct a reference list.

A quantitative survey was utilized to assess students’ experience and confidence using APA format prior to and following the workshop. The questionnaire consisted of a total of 17 items; in addition to the aforementioned self-report items (experience and confidence), 12 questions from the Penn State University Libraries APA Style Quiz were included to objectively assess participants’ knowledge of the content presented. These 12 questions asked students to choose correct APA format from a list of four or five possible options (multiple choice). Permission for use of these items was granted by Penn State University Libraries via e-mail communication. A Likert scale (0–10) was used for the experience and confidence questions. Demographic information (year in the nursing program) was also obtained.

Institutional Review Board Approval

IRB approval (February 23, 2021) was granted prior to any research/workshops being conducted.

Statistical Analysis

Responses from participants were entered into Excel and exported into SPSS 25 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were run to evaluate students’ year in the nursing program and their confidence and knowledge of APA format. Four paired samples t -tests were performed to compare students’ pre- and post-responses to the following: confidence in ability to use APA format in a paper, confidence in ability to cite sources/references in a paper, overall knowledge of APA style, and total APA Style Quiz questions answered correctly.

Using a priori sample size calculation for a minimum total sample size required for a two-tailed hypothesis with a desired statistical power level of 0.8 and a probability level of 0.05, it was determined that the minimum sample size needed per group was 26 respondents ( Soper, 2023 ). In total, 49 participants took pre- and post-surveys on APA style knowledge and confidence during the spring 2021 semester. All 49 participants fully answered survey questions before and after the workshops, resulting in no missing data.

Association Between Interventions and Outcomes

Confidence using APA format was asked on a 0–10 scale. The mean pre-test score for the combined 49 participants was 4.65 (standard deviation [SD] = 2.269) whereas the post-test mean for the same question was 7.18 (SD = 1.845). The paired sample t statistic was 5.95 and the finding was significant at the p  < .001 level in a paired samples t -test. Confidence in using APA citations correctly was also asked on a 0–10 scale. The mean pre-test score was 5.78 (SD = 2.094) whereas the post-test score was 7.45 (SD = 1.815). This, too, was a significant finding at the p  < .001 level in a paired samples t -test ( t  = 4.22). Perceived knowledge (experience with APA) was asked on a 0–10 scale. The pre-test mean was 4.71 (SD = 1.958), and the post-test results were a mean of 7.18 (SD = 1.856); this finding was also significant ( t  = 6.39, p  < .001). Reliability for these items was established using a Cronbach's alpha in SPSS. At time 1 for these four questions, the Cronbach's alpha was 0.885, and at time 2 it was 0.898, indicating strong covariance between items and variance in the total score. The 12 questions that asked students to identify the correct APA format/citation out of four or five options was marked as either correct or incorrect. These questions were created by Pennsylvania State University to test student knowledge. Questions and answers can be accessed through the Penn State University Libraries APA Quick Citation Guide (2023) .

Prior to the workshop, students got an average of 8.06 questions correct (SD = 1.761), and after the workshop, students got an average of 9.35 questions correct (SD = 1.614). The paired sample t statistic was 3.79, and this finding was significant ( p  < .001). Cohen's d was used to measure effect size because groups at time 1 and time 2 have similar SDs and are of the same sample size. Cohen's d effect sizes are presented in Table 1 . All effect sizes are large with the exception of the APA style questions answered correctly at time 1 and time 2. This effect size is 0.76, and falls between a medium and large effect size. Therefore, the means at time 2 are all at least 0.76 SDs above what they were at time 1.

Paired Sample Means and t -Test of Improvement in APA Knowledge.

Note. p  < .05*, p  < .01**, p  < .001***

Findings from this research were statistically significant and indicate that a workshop approach can be used to improve student writing. Scores for experience, confidence, and ability to use APA format improved after the workshop compared to before the workshop. In programs where little time is available for written communication instruction, APA writing workshops may be the answer for busy faculty and students.

While the curriculum for nursing majors is demanding on both students and faculty, learning written communication is essential for long-term success of nursing students. We have bridged the gap between time and learning by offering APA format workshops to our students. Results indicate that students not only learned APA format during these workshops but also boosted their confidence related to writing using professional guidelines. When asked to identify correct APA format in 12 questions, participants got an average of 8.06 correct before the workshop and an average of 9.35 questions correct after the workshop. What is more impressive is how much confidence participants gained during the workshop. Faculty plan to develop topics for future writing workshops based on faculty and/or student-identified needs.

Lessons Learned

Prior to the workshops, nursing faculty were aware of gaps in students’ understanding of APA format. The data collected during these workshops showed that not only were students struggling with the technical aspects of APA format but also with their confidence in their ability to use APA format and citations correctly. A 1-hour workshop significantly improved students’ abilities and confidence in regards to APA format.

Strengths and Limitations

Nursing curricula are content-full and fast-paced, making it difficult to add information, that may or may not be addressed in general education classes, into courses. In alignment with findings from previous research ( Derouin et al., 2015 ), voluntary workshops improve students’ abilities to use APA and their confidence in using APA format and citations. The current study has two major limitations that can be addressed with future research. The sample size of this study was 49 students who self-selected into the writing workshop. Future research would benefit from a larger, randomized sample. Furthermore, the post-test survey was given only once immediately following the workshop. Future research would benefit from an additional post-test survey given several weeks after the workshop to see if students retained their knowledge. Even if specific ideas were not retained, the authors argue that building confidence in using APA format will help students overcome hurdles in future writing projects.

Implications for Practice

These research findings indicate that nurse educators can successfully incorporate writing instruction in the nursing curriculum utilizing a workshop format. This approach serves as an effective alternative to adding this important content to an already content-heavy course. Incorporating campus resources, such as the university Writing Center, can increase the benefits of such workshops to students.

Conclusions

While professional standards for nursing clearly argue that written communication is an essential competency needed for career success, previous research indicates that skill in written communication is something that nursing students struggle to ascertain ( Diehl, 2007 ; Troxler et al., 2011 ) and faculty struggle to teach given other demands ( Miller et al., 2015 ). Addressing this gap takes creativity and data-driven decisions. Our pilot study indicates that teaching workshops on APA formatting, while partnering with the university Writing Center, works to improve nursing students’ self-ranked experience and confidence of APA formatting and citations while also improving their ability to successfully identify proper APA citations and format.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Krystle Forlines, DNP, RN of Danville Community College for her contributions to this project.

The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Funding: The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

ORCID iD: JoEllen Pederson https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6912-3269

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