Why Saudi Respiratory Therapists Struggle with Research: An Evidence-Based Analysis.

Abstract

Background: Respiratory care is a relatively new field of study that emerged in the last century, focusing on the provision of diagnostic, management, and treatment services for patients with respiratory diseases. Given its significance, expanding research in this field is essential to better understand the impact of management and treatment strategies, as well as the role of education.

Objective: This study aims to explore perceived barriers that hinder Saudi respiratory therapists from conducting research within the respiratory care field in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: This study was employed a cross-sectional design to examines the obstacles to respiratory care research in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaires contained three parts: demographic profile, 18 statements measured via 5 points-Likert's scale and three open-ended questions. A total of 124 respiratory therapist were participated in this study. SPSS was utilized for part one and two, while thematic analysis was utilized for open-ended questions.

Results: The findings reveal that insufficient institutional resources, time constraints, and the lack of incentives and recognition were the major barriers for conducting research. The participants proposed solutions to overcome these barriers such as financial support, reduced workload, continuous workshops to enhance research skills, and organizational recognition through incentives and rewards.

Conclusion: Our study offers a holistic view of the barriers encountered by individuals working in the field of respiratory care who wish to conduct research.