Factors Influencing Nurses and Midwives’ Participation in Research: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background The utilisation of research findings in healthcare among health professionals is key for promoting patient safety and achieving quality health outcomes including that of nursing and midwifery research. However, not much is known about the challenges Ghanaian nurses and midwives face in generating evidence-based findings to inform context-specific nursing and midwifery practice. Aim Explore factors influencing nurses and midwives’ participation and research use in Ghana. Methods We employed a qualitative descriptive exploratory approach involving in-depth face-to-face interviews with 60 nurses and midwives from six regions in Ghana. Participants were selected from training institutions, hospitals and community health units. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed for analysis. Data was coded and categorised into themes and subthemes using content analysis procedures. Results Nurses’ and midwives’ role in research varied. Barriers to research participation included inadequate knowledge, lack of interest, access to research funds, time constraints and attitude of respondents. Commitment, mentoring, access to resources and prestige associated with publishing enhanced participation. Conclusion Developing nurses’ and midwives’ interest in research requires training, collaboration, access to research funds and use of research outcomes.