Improving integration between research and practice as a means of developing evidence-based health care

Abstract

This paper seeks to highlight some aspects of the debate which surrounds the subject of the participation and effectiveness of nurses, midwives and health visitors in research and development of health care. It aims to widen the debate from the topic of research and its implementation, to consider organizational and inter-professional issues. Assumptions about the engagement of the profession are discussed, together with reflection on the nature of professional involvement. The purpose is to stimulate debate and to generate questions. Members of the profession are invited to respond and become engaged in the dialogue from which to broaden understanding of the subject. The product of debate will be used to inform a project being undertaken for the NHS Executive Nursing Directorate. The outcome of the project will be to determine the nature of a strategic framework to enable nurses to become increasingly proactive in directing the future shape of health-care services.