A novel healthcare role that marries the responsibilities of a clinician and a researcher is gaining prominence in the United States—a clinically based nurse scientist. This role embodies nurses who have successfully pursued PhD degrees to conduct research and often make major contributions to academic fields. Distinct from research nurses, who are usually registered nurses or nurse practitioners involved mainly in the operational facets of research, like patient recruitment for clinical trials, nurse scientists spearhead original investigations.
Traditionally, nurse scientists held key positions within academic institutions, winning grants, imparting knowledge to students, and controlling research programs. But recent trends have seen them transition towards hospital environments while still maintaining strong ties with clinical practice. This migration can be connected to the influence exerted by the concept of Magnet designation, which highly promotes research conducted by nurses.
Over the past ten years, the role nurse scientists play in hospitals has significantly amplified. According to Bevin Cohen, PhD, RN, the Director of the Center for Nursing Research and Innovation at Mount Sinai, New York City, nurse scientists are instrumental in bridging the gap. They converge with institutional priorities and support pertinent care delivery research while synchronizing with researchers across various disciplines. Although the specific roles of nurse scientists within a hospital can vary by individual, they generally align with the needs of the institution.
In a testament to their importance, most of the top 100 healthcare systems in the U.S site at least one clinically based nurse scientist on staff. Mount Sinai, however, stands apart as one of the few institutions investing heavily in nurse scientists. This commitment led to the establishment of a Center for Nursing Research and Innovation and the hosting of the nation’s maiden conference for nurse scientists. Notwithstanding having approximately 20 nurses possessing PhDs across Mount Sinai, the Center exclusively houses five nurse scientists.
Their research spectrum spans from maternal and child health equity, care continuity post-hospital discharge, to issues concerning the nurse workforce. When not actively researching, the team organizes nationwide research training programs for nurses and students from different disciplines. They also manage an open-access, peer-reviewed journal named ‘Practical Implementation of Nursing Science’ in cooperation with Mount Sinai’s Levy Library Press.
The presence of nurse scientists goes beyond a title; their role is a profound influencer. They provide a platform for nurses’ professional development, making hospitals more attractive for those interested in delving into research and advanced education. The contributions of nurse scientists are instrumental in boosting nurse retention and engagement. Their impact on patient care is equally significant.
In the quest to enhance patient satisfaction, cost-effectiveness, and quality, nurse scientists play a pivotal role in designing research studies to determine the most effective interventions. With the research landscape becoming more collaborative, the distinct insights provided by nurse scientists can be critical to the overall quality and applicability of research outcomes. Given these benefits, it becomes clear that an increased investment in nurse scientists should be a strategic priority for healthcare institutions.