Analysis of nursing research studies submitted to Spain’s health research fund and the resulting scientific output

Abstract

A descriptive observational study was conducted to ascertain and analyse the scientific status of nursing in Spain, based on nursing research studies submitted to the Health Research Fund (Fondo de Investigación Sanitaria-FIS) for public funding and their ensuing scientific output. The study selection criteria required the following: the principal researcher to be a nurse; and the terms, ‘nursing’, ‘self-care’, ‘care’, ‘ulcer’ and/or ‘home care’ included in title or key words. For analysis of bibliographic output, a bibliographic search was made of national and international databases. During the study period (1996–2004), 673 nursing studies were submitted for public funding, with 28% being funded as a result. Of these, 37% addressed research topics focused on clinical practice. Most relied on quantitative methodology, with a descriptive design (48%). Of the studies funded from 1996 to 2002 (86), only 58% resulted in publications; of the total of 73 publications so yielded, only five were published in international journals. The main grounds for rejection of studies were also reviewed. Although nursing research is progressively increasing, it is essential to continue striving to enhance the quality and dissemination of such research.