Nurses’ Attitudes, Environmental Perceptions and Involvement in Research: A Multisite Study

Abstract

Background: Although evidence-based practice is widely promoted in nursing, direct care nurses remain underrepresented in research activities. This study aimed to assess nurses’ attitudes toward research, their perceptions of the organizational research environment, and their levels of involvement, as well as identify key barriers and facilitators to engagement within a comprehensive healthcare system. This study also explored how racial and ethnic diversity within the nursing workforce may shape research engagement and contribute new perspectives to the field. Methods: A cross-sectional electronic survey was administered to registered nurses across 10 hospitals in a Northeast U.S. health system. The survey instrument assessed research attitudes, environment, involvement (past, present, future), and demographics. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including matched-pairs t-tests, were used to analyze responses. Results: Of 7655 invited nurses, 1094 responses were analyzed. Respondents were predominantly female (88.5%), White (56.8%), and employed full-time (87.1%) as clinical staff nurses (77.3%). While 54.8% had completed a formal research course (mainly within the past 1–3 years), informal research and statistics training were uncommon (17.4% and 5.4%, respectively). Nurses reported highly positive attitudes toward research (composite M = 2.15, SD = 0.51), especially its role in guiding practice, professional growth, and education. However, actual involvement was low. The most common current activities included practice change based on research (20.7%) and participation in committees (18.8%). Anticipated future engagement increased substantially, particularly in collaboration (+21.3%), committee participation (+20.6%), and IRB submission (+18.2%). The research environment was perceived as under-resourced, particularly in terms of protected time, funding, and mentorship. Statistically significant gaps were observed between perceived present and desired future supports (p < 0.01 for all 15 items). The Research Awareness Index revealed high rates of uncertainty about available resources (e.g., 66.1% did not know if internal funding existed). Conclusions: Nurses demonstrate strong positive attitudes and a desire to engage in research, including more advanced roles. Yet structural and informational barriers, particularly a lack of protected time, mentorship, and awareness of existing supports, limit participation. Investments in infrastructure, communication, and accessible development pathways are needed to translate nurses’ readiness into active research engagement. Implications: Institutions should prioritize making research support more visible and navigable while investing in mentorship, protected time, and user-friendly infrastructure. Addressing both facets will empower a highly motivated nursing workforce to engage in and lead practice-relevant research.