student nurse research proposal

Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

What is a nursing research paper.

What They Include
Choosing a Topic
Best Nursing Research Topics
Research Paper Writing Tips

Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

Writing a research paper is a massive task that involves careful organization, critical analysis, and a lot of time. Some nursing students are natural writers, while others struggle to select a nursing research topic, let alone write about it.

If you're a nursing student who dreads writing research papers, this article may help ease your anxiety. We'll cover everything you need to know about writing nursing school research papers and the top topics for nursing research.

Continue reading to make your paper-writing jitters a thing of the past.

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A nursing research paper is a work of academic writing composed by a nurse or nursing student. The paper may present information on a specific topic or answer a question.

During LPN/LVN and RN programs, most papers you write focus on learning to use research databases, evaluate appropriate resources, and format your writing with APA style. You'll then synthesize your research information to answer a question or analyze a topic.

BSN , MSN , Ph.D., and DNP programs also write nursing research papers. Students in these programs may also participate in conducting original research studies.

Writing papers during your academic program improves and develops many skills, including the ability to:

Select nursing topics for research
Conduct effective research
Analyze published academic literature
Format and cite sources
Synthesize data
Organize and articulate findings

About Nursing Research Papers

When do nursing students write research papers.

You may need to write a research paper for any of the nursing courses you take. Research papers help develop critical thinking and communication skills. They allow you to learn how to conduct research and critically review publications.

That said, not every class will require in-depth, 10-20-page papers. The more advanced your degree path, the more you can expect to write and conduct research. If you're in an associate or bachelor's program, you'll probably write a few papers each semester or term.

Do Nursing Students Conduct Original Research?

Most of the time, you won't be designing, conducting, and evaluating new research. Instead, your projects will focus on learning the research process and the scientific method. You'll achieve these objectives by evaluating existing nursing literature and sources and defending a thesis.

However, many nursing faculty members do conduct original research. So, you may get opportunities to participate in, and publish, research articles.

Example Research Project Scenario:

In your maternal child nursing class, the professor assigns the class a research paper regarding developmentally appropriate nursing interventions for the pediatric population. While that may sound specific, you have almost endless opportunities to narrow down the focus of your writing.

You could choose pain intervention measures in toddlers. Conversely, you can research the effects of prolonged hospitalization on adolescents' social-emotional development.

What Does a Nursing Research Paper Include?

Your professor should provide a thorough guideline of the scope of the paper. In general, an undergraduate nursing research paper will consist of:

Introduction : A brief overview of the research question/thesis statement your paper will discuss. You can include why the topic is relevant.

Body : This section presents your research findings and allows you to synthesize the information and data you collected. You'll have a chance to articulate your evaluation and answer your research question. The length of this section depends on your assignment.

Conclusion : A brief review of the information and analysis you presented throughout the body of the paper. This section is a recap of your paper and another chance to reassert your thesis.

The best advice is to follow your instructor's rubric and guidelines. Remember to ask for help whenever needed, and avoid overcomplicating the assignment!

How to Choose a Nursing Research Topic

The sheer volume of prospective nursing research topics can become overwhelming for students. Additionally, you may get the misconception that all the 'good' research ideas are exhausted. However, a personal approach may help you narrow down a research topic and find a unique angle.

Writing your research paper about a topic you value or connect with makes the task easier. Additionally, you should consider the material's breadth. Topics with plenty of existing literature will make developing a research question and thesis smoother.

Finally, feel free to shift gears if necessary, especially if you're still early in the research process. If you start down one path and have trouble finding published information, ask your professor if you can choose another topic.

The Best Research Topics for Nursing Students

You have endless subject choices for nursing research papers. This non-exhaustive list just scratches the surface of some of the best nursing research topics.

1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics

Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties.
Discuss the impact of evidence-based respiratory interventions on patient outcomes in critical care settings.
Explore the effectiveness of pain management protocols in pediatric patients.

2. Community Health Nursing Research Topics

Assess the impact of nurse-led diabetes education in Type II Diabetics.
Analyze the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to healthcare services.

3. Nurse Education Research Topics

Review the effectiveness of simulation-based learning to improve nursing students' clinical skills.
Identify methods that best prepare pre-licensure students for clinical practice.
Investigate factors that influence nurses to pursue advanced degrees.
Evaluate education methods that enhance cultural competence among nurses.
Describe the role of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and burnout among nurses.

4. Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

Explore patient outcomes related to nurse staffing levels in acute behavioral health settings.
Assess the effectiveness of mental health education among emergency room nurses .
Explore de-escalation techniques that result in improved patient outcomes.
Review the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in improving patient outcomes.

5. Pediatric Nursing Research Topics

Assess the impact of parental involvement in pediatric asthma treatment adherence.
Explore challenges related to chronic illness management in pediatric patients.
Review the role of play therapy and other therapeutic interventions that alleviate anxiety among hospitalized children.

6. The Nursing Profession Research Topics

Analyze the effects of short staffing on nurse burnout .
Evaluate factors that facilitate resiliency among nursing professionals.
Examine predictors of nurse dissatisfaction and burnout.
Posit how nursing theories influence modern nursing practice.

Tips for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

The best nursing research advice we can provide is to follow your professor's rubric and instructions. However, here are a few study tips for nursing students to make paper writing less painful:

Avoid procrastination: Everyone says it, but few follow this advice. You can significantly lower your stress levels if you avoid procrastinating and start working on your project immediately.

Plan Ahead: Break down the writing process into smaller sections, especially if it seems overwhelming. Give yourself time for each step in the process.

Research: Use your resources and ask for help from the librarian or instructor. The rest should come together quickly once you find high-quality studies to analyze.

Outline: Create an outline to help you organize your thoughts. Then, you can plug in information throughout the research process.

Clear Language: Use plain language as much as possible to get your point across. Jargon is inevitable when writing academic nursing papers, but keep it to a minimum.

Cite Properly: Accurately cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Nursing research papers will almost always implement APA style. Check out the resources below for some excellent reference management options.

Revise and Edit: Once you finish your first draft, put it away for one to two hours or, preferably, a whole day. Once you've placed some space between you and your paper, read through and edit for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Reading your essay out loud is an excellent way to check for the 'flow' of the paper.

Helpful Nursing Research Writing Resources:

Purdue OWL (Online writing lab) has a robust APA guide covering everything you need about APA style and rules.

Grammarly helps you edit grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Upgrading to a paid plan will get you plagiarism detection, formatting, and engagement suggestions. This tool is excellent to help you simplify complicated sentences.

Mendeley is a free reference management software. It stores, organizes, and cites references. It has a Microsoft plug-in that inserts and correctly formats APA citations.

Don't let nursing research papers scare you away from starting nursing school or furthering your education. Their purpose is to develop skills you'll need to be an effective nurse: critical thinking, communication, and the ability to review published information critically.

Choose a great topic and follow your teacher's instructions; you'll finish that paper in no time.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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Sample Research Proposal: Education Topics for Nursing Students – A Comprehensive Guide

What You'll Learn

1. Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your entire proposal. It should capture the reader’s attention and clearly explain the importance of your research. In this section, you’ll want to:

Provide a broad overview of the topic
Narrow down to your specific area of interest
Explain why this research is necessary
Briefly mention the potential impact of your study
State your research objectives

Example: “In the rapidly evolving field of healthcare, nursing education plays a crucial role in shaping competent, compassionate, and critical-thinking professionals. As patient care becomes increasingly complex and technology-driven, it’s essential that nursing education adapts to meet these changing demands. This research proposal focuses on an innovative approach to nursing education: simulation-based learning.

Simulation-based learning involves creating realistic scenarios that mimic real-world healthcare situations. These simulations allow nursing students to practice their skills in a safe, controlled environment before applying them in actual clinical settings. While simulation has gained popularity in recent years, its specific impact on critical thinking skills remains understudied.

Critical thinking is a vital skill for nurses, who must often make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. The ability to analyze information, consider multiple perspectives, and arrive at sound conclusions can literally be a matter of life and death in nursing practice. Therefore, understanding how educational methods like simulation-based learning affect the development of these crucial skills is of utmost importance.

This research aims to investigate the effectiveness of simulation-based learning in improving nursing students’ critical thinking skills compared to traditional classroom learning. By doing so, we hope to contribute valuable insights that could shape the future of nursing education, ultimately leading to better-prepared nurses and improved patient outcomes.

The objectives of this study are:

To measure the impact of simulation-based learning on critical thinking skills in nursing students
To compare the effectiveness of simulation-based learning with traditional classroom methods
To explore how improved critical thinking skills translate to clinical performance
To provide evidence-based recommendations for integrating simulation into nursing curricula”

2. Research Topic Selection

Explaining how and why you chose your research topic demonstrates the thought process behind your proposal. This section should:

Discuss the relevance of your topic to current nursing practice
Explain how you identified gaps in existing research
Describe any personal experiences or observations that influenced your choice
Connect your topic to broader trends in healthcare and education

Example: “The selection of simulation-based learning as a research topic was motivated by several factors:

Technological Advancements in Healthcare: The healthcare industry is increasingly relying on advanced technology for patient care. From electronic health records to complex medical devices, nurses must be comfortable with technology. Simulation-based learning can help prepare students for this tech-savvy environment.
Patient Safety Concerns: There’s a growing emphasis on patient safety in healthcare. Simulation allows students to practice procedures and decision-making without risking patient harm. This aligns with the healthcare principle of “first, do no harm.”
Limited Clinical Placement Opportunities: Many nursing programs struggle to find enough clinical placements for their students. Simulation can provide additional “clinical” experiences when real-world opportunities are limited.
Gap in Current Research: While reviewing literature on nursing education, I noticed that most studies on simulation focus on skill acquisition or student satisfaction. There’s limited research specifically examining its impact on critical thinking development.
Personal Observations: As a nursing educator, I’ve observed that students often struggle to apply classroom knowledge in clinical settings. They might excel in exams but hesitate when faced with real-world scenarios. This sparked my interest in exploring methods to bridge this theory-practice gap.
Global Health Challenges: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for nurses who can think critically and adapt quickly to new situations. This global event reinforced the importance of developing these skills in nursing students.
Alignment with Educational Trends: There’s a broader trend in education towards active, experiential learning. Simulation-based learning fits well with this pedagogical shift.

By focusing on the impact of simulation-based learning on critical thinking skills, this research addresses a crucial aspect of nursing education while filling a gap in the current body of knowledge.”

3. Literature Review

The literature review is a critical component of your research proposal. It demonstrates your familiarity with existing research and helps justify the need for your study. In this section:

Summarize key findings from relevant studies
Identify trends, patterns, or contradictions in the literature
Discuss methodologies used in previous research
Highlight gaps or limitations in current knowledge
Explain how your research will contribute to the field

Example: “A comprehensive review of the literature reveals several key themes and gaps related to simulation-based learning in nursing education:

Effectiveness of Simulation in Skill Acquisition: Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of simulation on clinical skill development. For instance, a meta-analysis by Chen et al. (2021) found that nursing students who participated in simulation training showed significantly improved psychomotor skills compared to those who received only traditional instruction. However, these studies primarily focus on technical skills rather than cognitive processes.
Student Satisfaction and Confidence: Research consistently shows high levels of student satisfaction with simulation-based learning. A large-scale survey by Thompson (2022) of 1,000 nursing students across 10 universities found that 87% felt more confident in their abilities after participating in simulations. While confidence is important, it doesn’t necessarily correlate with competence or critical thinking ability.
Transfer of Skills to Clinical Practice: Some studies have attempted to measure how well skills learned in simulation transfer to real clinical settings. A longitudinal study by Patel and Singh (2023) followed 150 nursing graduates for their first year of practice and found that those who had extensive simulation experience during their education reported feeling more prepared for clinical work. However, this study relied on self-reported data rather than objective measures of performance.
Critical Thinking in Nursing Education: Critical thinking has been widely recognized as a crucial skill for nurses. A systematic review by Lopez et al. (2022) identified various teaching strategies aimed at improving critical thinking, including problem-based learning, concept mapping, and reflective journaling. Simulation was mentioned as a promising method, but the review noted a lack of robust studies specifically examining its impact on critical thinking.
Assessment of Critical Thinking: Measuring critical thinking remains a challenge in educational research. While tools like the California Critical Thinking Skills Test have been used in nursing studies, there’s debate about their relevance to clinical decision-making. Martinez (2023) proposed a new assessment tool specifically for evaluating critical thinking in nursing scenarios, but it has yet to be widely validated.
Long-term Impact of Educational Interventions: Most studies on simulation-based learning focus on immediate or short-term outcomes. There’s a notable lack of research examining the long-term impact of these educational interventions on nursing practice. A small-scale study by White (2021) followed 30 nurses for five years post-graduation and suggested that those with more simulation experience showed greater critical thinking skills in their practice, but the sample size limits the generalizability of these findings.
Integration of Simulation into Curricula: While many nursing programs have adopted simulation to some degree, there’s little consensus on the optimal way to integrate it into curricula. Johnson and Lee’s (2022) survey of nursing programs in the United States found wide variation in the amount and type of simulation used, ranging from occasional supplemental exercises to full replacement of clinical hours.
Cost-Effectiveness of Simulation: Several studies have attempted to analyze the cost-effectiveness of simulation in nursing education. While the initial investment in equipment and training can be substantial, research by Economou (2023) suggests that over time, simulation can be more cost-effective than traditional clinical placements, especially when considering factors like reduced risk of patient harm and increased standardization of experiences.

This review of the literature highlights several important points:

Simulation-based learning has shown promise in improving clinical skills and student confidence.
There’s a lack of robust research specifically examining the impact of simulation on critical thinking skills in nursing students.
Measuring critical thinking in the context of nursing education remains challenging.
More research is needed on the long-term impacts of simulation-based learning on nursing practice.
There’s no clear consensus on the best ways to integrate simulation into nursing curricula.

Our proposed research aims to address some of these gaps by specifically focusing on the development of critical thinking skills through simulation-based learning, using both short-term and long-term measures of effectiveness. By doing so, we hope to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing discussion about best practices in nursing education.”

4. Research Question and Hypothesis

Your research question and hypothesis are the core of your proposal. They should be clear, specific, and directly related to the gap in knowledge you’ve identified. In this section:

State your primary research question
Explain any secondary or sub-questions
Present your hypothesis or hypotheses
Justify your questions and hypotheses based on the literature review

Example: “Based on the gaps identified in the literature review, we have formulated the following research question and hypotheses:

Primary Research Question: “How does simulation-based learning affect the development of critical thinking skills in second-year nursing students compared to traditional classroom learning over the course of one academic year?”

Secondary Research Questions:

“Is there a difference in the rate of critical thinking skill development between students who participate in high-fidelity simulations versus those who participate in low-fidelity simulations?”
“How do students’ perceptions of their own critical thinking abilities correlate with objective measures of these skills?”
“To what extent do critical thinking skills developed through simulation-based learning transfer to clinical practice settings?”

Hypotheses:

Main Hypothesis: Second-year nursing students who participate in simulation-based learning will show greater improvement in critical thinking skills over one academic year compared to those who receive only traditional classroom instruction.
Secondary Hypothesis A: Students who participate in high-fidelity simulations will show greater improvement in critical thinking skills compared to those who participate in low-fidelity simulations.
Secondary Hypothesis B: There will be a positive correlation between students’ self-perceived critical thinking abilities and their objectively measured critical thinking skills, but this correlation will be stronger in the simulation group than in the traditional learning group.
Secondary Hypothesis C: Students who participate in simulation-based learning will demonstrate better application of critical thinking skills in clinical practice settings compared to those who receive only traditional classroom instruction.

Justification: These research questions and hypotheses are grounded in the current literature on simulation-based learning and critical thinking in nursing education. While previous studies have shown the effectiveness of simulation in improving clinical skills (Chen et al., 2021) and student confidence (Thompson, 2022), there’s a lack of robust evidence specifically linking simulation to improved critical thinking skills.

Our main hypothesis builds on the promising findings of White’s (2021) small-scale, long-term study, which suggested a positive relationship between simulation experience and critical thinking in practice. By conducting a larger study over an academic year, we aim to provide more generalizable results.

The secondary questions and hypotheses address additional gaps in the literature. The comparison of high-fidelity and low-fidelity simulations (Secondary Hypothesis A) responds to the lack of consensus on optimal simulation integration noted by Johnson and Lee (2022). The exploration of self-perceived versus objectively measured skills (Secondary Hypothesis B) addresses the issue of confidence versus competence raised in our literature review.

Finally, the question of skill transfer to clinical settings (Secondary Hypothesis C) addresses the crucial issue of how classroom learning translates to real-world practice, building on the work of Patel and Singh (2023) but using objective measures rather than self-reported data.

By addressing these questions and testing these hypotheses, we hope to contribute meaningful insights to the ongoing discussion about effective methods for developing critical thinking skills in nursing education.”

5. Methodology

The methodology section is where you detail exactly how you plan to conduct your research. This section should be comprehensive enough that another researcher could replicate your study based on your description. Include:

Study design
Participant selection and recruitment
Intervention details
Data collection methods
Measurement tools
Data analysis techniques
Potential limitations and how you’ll address them

Example: “Study Design: This study will employ a mixed-methods, randomized controlled trial design over one academic year. The use of both quantitative and qualitative methods will provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of simulation-based learning on critical thinking skills.

Participants:

Target population: Second-year nursing students
Sample size: 200 students (100 per group, allowing for potential dropouts)
Inclusion criteria: Full-time enrollment in the second year of the nursing program
Exclusion criteria: Previous degree in a healthcare field, part-time student status

Recruitment will be conducted through the university’s nursing program. Participation will be voluntary, and students will be randomly assigned to either the experimental (simulation-based learning) or control (traditional classroom learning) group.

Intervention: Experimental Group:

Weekly 2-hour simulation sessions in addition to regular coursework
Mix of high-fidelity and low-fidelity simulations
Scenarios designed to challenge critical thinking skills
Debriefing sessions after each simulation to encourage reflection

Control Group:

Traditional classroom learning only
Matched for time with additional seminars or case studies

Both groups will continue their regular clinical placements as part of their nursing program.

Data Collection:

Tool: California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST)
Timing: Beginning of the academic year, end of each semester, and end of the academic year
Tool: Creighton Competency Evaluation Instrument (CCEI)
Timing: During clinical placements each semester
Tool: Critical Thinking Self-Assessment Scale (CTSAS)
Timing: Beginning and end of the academic year
Students will complete weekly reflective entries about their learning experiences
Conducted at the midpoint and end of the academic year
Separate groups for simulation and traditional learning students
Survey of participants one year post-graduation to assess perceived impact on professional practice

Measurement Tools:

California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST): A validated tool that measures critical thinking skills across several domains including analysis, inference, and evaluation.
Creighton Competency Evaluation Instrument (CCEI): A widely used tool for evaluating clinical competence in nursing students. It includes items related to critical thinking and clinical judgment.
Critical Thinking Self-Assessment Scale (CTSAS): A self-report measure that assesses students’ perceptions of their own critical thinking abilities.

Data Analysis: Quantitative Analysis:

Repeated measures ANOVA to compare changes in CCTST scores over time between groups
Independent t-tests to compare CCEI scores between groups
Pearson correlation to examine the relationship between CCTST and CTSAS scores
Multiple regression to identify predictors of clinical performance (CCEI scores)

Qualitative Analysis:

Thematic analysis of reflective journals and focus group transcripts
Coding will be conducted independently by two researchers, with discrepancies resolved through discussion

Mixed Methods Integration:

Quantitative and qualitative results will be integrated using a convergent parallel design to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of simulation-based learning on critical thinking

Potential Limitations and Mitigation Strategies:

Participant dropout: We’ve oversampled to account for potential dropouts. We’ll also use intention-to-treat analysis to handle missing data.
Hawthorne effect: Participants may alter their behavior because they know they’re being studied. We’ll emphasize to all students the importance of maintaining their usual study habits.
Contamination between groups: Students may share experiences. We’ll ask participants to refrain from discussing the specifics of their learning experiences with students in the other group.
Variability in simulation experiences: To ensure consistency, all simulation facilitators will undergo standardized training, and we’ll use a structured debriefing protocol.
Generalizability: Our study is limited to one institution. In the future, a multi-center trial could address this limitation.

By employing this comprehensive methodology, we aim to gather robust data that will allow us to draw meaningful conclusions about the impact of simulation-based learning on critical thinking skills in nursing education.”

6. Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount in any research involving human subjects. This section should demonstrate that you’ve thoroughly considered the ethical implications of your study and have plans in place to protect your participants. Include:

Informed consent process
Confidentiality and data protection measures
Potential risks and benefits to participants
Measures to ensure fair treatment of all participants
Plans for dissemination of results
Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval process

Example: “Ethical considerations are a top priority in this research project. We are committed to conducting our study in a manner that respects the rights and well-being of all participants. The following measures will be implemented to ensure ethical conduct:

All potential participants will receive a detailed information sheet explaining the study’s purpose, procedures, potential risks and benefits, and their rights as participants.
Students will have the opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether to participate.
Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants before the study begins.
Participants will be informed that they can withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.
Confidentiality and Data Protection:
All data will be de-identified. Each participant will be assigned a unique code number, and this code will be used on all data collection forms instead of names.
Physical data (e.g., completed assessment forms) will be stored in a locked cabinet in a secure office.
Electronic data will be stored on a password-protected, encrypted server accessible only to the research team.
Any published results will present aggregate data only, with no individual participants identifiable.
Potential stress or anxiety related to participation in simulations or assessments.Possible fatigue from additional activities beyond regular coursework.
Potential improvement in critical thinking skills and clinical performance.Contribution to the advancement of nursing education.
Psychological support services will be available to all participants.
Workload will be carefully monitored to prevent excessive burden on participants.
Random assignment to groups will ensure fairness in allocation of interventions.
The control group will receive additional seminars to balance the time commitment between groups.
After the study concludes, the control group will be offered the opportunity to participate in simulation-based learning sessions.
All participants will receive a summary of the study findings.
Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant conferences.
Findings will be shared with the university’s nursing department to inform curriculum development.
A detailed research protocol will be submitted to the university’s IRB for review and approval before the study begins.
Any proposed changes to the study protocol during the research will be submitted to the IRB for approval before implementation.
All researchers will declare any potential conflicts of interest.
Measures will be taken to ensure that assessment of outcomes is conducted by individuals not directly involved in delivering the interventions.
Data will be retained securely for five years after the completion of the study, as per institutional guidelines.
After this period, physical data will be shredded and electronic data will be securely erased.

By implementing these ethical considerations, we aim to protect the rights and well-being of our participants while conducting rigorous and valuable research in nursing education.”

7. Timeline and Budget

A clear timeline and budget demonstrate the feasibility of your project and show that you’ve thought through the practical aspects of conducting your research. This section should include:

A detailed timeline of research activities
A breakdown of anticipated costs
Potential funding sources

Example: “Timeline: Our research project will span 18 months, including preparation, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of results.

Month 1-2: Preparation Phase

Finalize research protocol
Submit IRB application
Prepare data collection instruments
Train research assistants and simulation facilitators

Month 3-4: Recruitment and Pre-testing

Recruit participants
Obtain informed consent
Conduct pre-tests (CCTST and CTSAS)
Randomize participants into groups

Month 5-16: Intervention and Data Collection

Implement simulation-based learning for experimental group
Conduct regular assessments (CCTST at end of each semester)
Collect clinical performance data (CCEI) during placements
Facilitate focus groups at midpoint (Month 10)
Participants complete weekly reflective journals

Month 17-18: Data Analysis and Report Writing

Analyze quantitative and qualitative data
Write up results
Prepare manuscript for publication
Develop summary report for participants and stakeholders

Post-study (1 year later):

Conduct follow-up survey with participants
Research Assistant (part-time): $20,000
Statistical Consultant: $5,000
Simulation Technician: $15,000 Subtotal: $40,000
Simulation equipment rental: $30,000
Consumable supplies for simulations: $5,000
Printing and stationery: $1,000 Subtotal: $36,000
California Critical Thinking Skills Test (200 licenses): $10,000
Creighton Competency Evaluation Instrument (license): $2,000 Subtotal: $12,000
Participant incentives ($50 per participant): $10,000
Refreshments for focus groups: $500 Subtotal: $10,500
Qualitative data analysis software license: $1,000
Publication fees for open-access journal: $3,000 Subtotal: $4,000
Travel to conference for result presentation: $2,500
Contingency fund (10% of total): $10,500 Subtotal: $13,000

Total Estimated Budget: $115,500

Potential Funding Sources:

University internal research grants
National League for Nursing (NLN) Nursing Education Research Grants
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Research Grants
State Nursing Workforce Centers research funding
Private foundations focused on healthcare education

We will apply to multiple funding sources to secure the necessary budget for this research project.”

8. Expected Outcomes and Significance

This section should clearly articulate what you expect to find through your research and why these findings matter. Include:

Anticipated results based on your hypothesis
Potential implications for nursing education
Broader impact on healthcare and patient outcomes
How your research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge

Example: “Expected Outcomes: Based on our hypotheses and the existing literature, we anticipate the following outcomes:

Critical Thinking Skills: We expect that students in the simulation-based learning group will show significantly greater improvement in critical thinking skills, as measured by the CCTST, compared to the traditional learning group. This improvement is likely to be most pronounced in areas such as analysis, inference, and evaluation.
Clinical Performance: We anticipate that students in the simulation group will demonstrate better clinical performance, as measured by the CCEI, particularly in aspects related to clinical judgment and decision-making.
Self-Perceived Abilities: We expect to see a stronger correlation between self-perceived and objectively measured critical thinking skills in the simulation group, suggesting that these students develop a more accurate self-assessment of their abilities.
Qualitative Insights: Through analysis of reflective journals and focus groups, we anticipate gaining rich insights into how students experience the development of critical thinking skills through simulation-based learning.
Long-Term Impact: In the follow-up survey, we expect graduates who participated in simulation-based learning to report feeling better prepared for the challenges of nursing practice, particularly in situations requiring rapid critical thinking.

Significance: The anticipated outcomes of this study have significant implications for nursing education and, by extension, healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Advancing Nursing Education: If our hypotheses are supported, this research will provide strong evidence for the effectiveness of simulation-based learning in developing critical thinking skills. This could lead to widespread changes in nursing curricula, with greater integration of simulation experiences throughout nursing programs.
Improving Patient Safety: Nurses with stronger critical thinking skills are better equipped to make sound clinical judgments, potentially reducing medical errors and improving patient safety. By identifying effective methods for developing these skills, our research could indirectly contribute to better patient outcomes.
Addressing the Theory-Practice Gap: One of the persistent challenges in nursing education is bridging the gap between classroom learning and clinical practice. If simulation-based learning proves effective in developing transferable critical thinking skills, it could help address this longstanding issue.
Cost-Effective Education: While simulation equipment can be expensive initially, if it proves highly effective in developing critical skills, it could ultimately be a cost-effective approach to nursing education, particularly when considering the potential reduction in adverse events in clinical practice.
Informing Educational Policy: The results of this study could inform educational policies at both institutional and national levels, potentially influencing accreditation standards for nursing programs.
Contribution to Educational Theory: This research will contribute to the broader understanding of how experiential learning methods like simulation impact cognitive skill development, which could have implications beyond nursing education.
Future Research Directions: Our study is likely to generate new questions and hypotheses about the optimal use of simulation in nursing education, paving the way for future research in this area.

In conclusion, this research has the potential to significantly impact how we prepare future nurses for the complex, critical thinking demands of modern healthcare environments. By rigorously examining the effects of simulation-based learning on critical thinking development, we aim to contribute valuable, evidence-based insights that could enhance nursing education and, ultimately, the quality of patient care.”

Ultimate Guide to Writing a Proposal Essay

69 Awesome Nursing Research Topics for a Winning Paper

9. Conclusion

The conclusion should succinctly summarize your proposal and restate its importance. This is your final opportunity to convince the reader of the value of your research.

Example: “This research proposal aims to address a crucial gap in our understanding of how to best develop critical thinking skills in nursing students. By comparing simulation-based learning with traditional classroom methods, we seek to provide empirical evidence that could significantly influence the future of nursing education.

The nursing profession faces ever-increasing challenges, from advancing medical technologies to complex patient needs and evolving healthcare systems. Critical thinking is not just a desirable skill for nurses—it’s an essential competency that can directly impact patient outcomes. Our proposed study, with its rigorous methodology and comprehensive approach, has the potential to offer valuable insights into how we can more effectively cultivate these vital skills in nursing students.

If our hypotheses are supported, the implications could be far-reaching. Nursing programs might revise their curricula to incorporate more simulation-based learning experiences. This could lead to graduates who are better prepared for the complexities of clinical practice, potentially improving patient safety and care quality.

Even if our results do not support our hypotheses, the findings will still contribute important knowledge to the field. They could help educators make more informed decisions about resource allocation and highlight areas where further research is needed.

In conclusion, this research represents a significant opportunity to enhance nursing education and, by extension, the quality of healthcare delivery. By investing in this study, we invest in the future of nursing and patient care. We believe that the potential benefits far outweigh the costs and challenges involved, and we are committed to conducting this research with the utmost scientific rigor and ethical consideration.”

This comprehensive research proposal provides a detailed roadmap for investigating the impact of simulation-based learning on critical thinking skills in nursing education. It addresses a significant gap in current knowledge and has the potential to influence educational practices in nursing programs worldwide. The proposal demonstrates a thorough understanding of the existing literature, presents a clear and feasible methodology, and considers important ethical and practical aspects of conducting the research.

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Research/Clinical/Student Project Proposal Guidelines

Download the 2016 application. All materials must be formatted using APA format.

I. Quantitative Research Proposal

1. Title and Abstract A 200-word abstract are to accompany the proposal. The abstract should include the study aim, significance, the population and sample description and a statement of the design and analysis.

2. Proposal Outline (1,500 word limit) The following areas are to be included in the proposal, as appropriate.

A. The Problem a) Statement of the problem or research question. b) Hypotheses. c) Definitions of variables. Theoretical and operational definitions (instruments). d) Theoretical framework and population. e) Critique of the most salient elements of the pertinent literature. f) Significance to nursing science.

B. Methodology a) Design b) Instrument reliability and validity. c) Data collection procedure. Include official human subjects reviews if conducted and a consent form. d) Sample, size and sampling procedure. e) Method of analysis.

C. References and Appendices a) Reference list

II. Qualitative Research Proposal

A. Title and 200-word Abstract

B. Proposal (1,500 word limit) a) A clear statement that specifies the phenomenon to be studied; b) Documentation of a need for study and significance of the study for nursing; c) Identification of the qualitative approach with a rationale for its selection; d) Specification of the design with attention to: - what data are sought - how and when those data will be solicited - how relationships with research participants will be initiated, maintained and terminated - how data will be managed - how data will be analyzed and related to pre-existing knowledge - how findings will be reported e) References and Appendices

III. Clinical Project – 1500 word limit A clinical project is defined as a professional nursing project that addresses a common or significant health concern in a creative and evidence-based manner. The project should go beyond the applicant’s usual academic or employment requirements.

A. Aims - State clearly the clinical significance of the project including how it will identify/test/demonstrate nursing interventions and/or care delivery models that provide the most beneficial outcomes for patients. State concisely and realistically the expected clinical impact of this project, i.e., what the clinical project is intended to accomplish and/or demonstrate.

B. Significance & Background - Briefly describe the clinical significance of the project. Be clear what is being demonstrated. Provide a synthesis of the literature in the field(s) that is pertinent to the proposed project. Summarize the rationale or theoretical/conceptual underpinnings for the work. State clearly the relationship of this project to an overall program of clinical scholarship.

C. Method - Discuss in detail the methods to be used to accomplish the aims. Describe the potential limitations of the methods and approaches you will use to minimize these limitations. Delineate measures to be used to assess the effect of the project.

D. Dissemination & Translation – Describe the audiences that would benefit from knowing and adopting the findings of this work. Outline a dissemination plan.

E. Time Frame - Provide a timeline for the main steps of the project, including anticipated start and completion dates.

IV. Student Project – 1500 word limit A student project is defined as project that addresses a common or significant health concern in a creative and evidence-based manner. It may include activities associated with Masters, PhD or DNP work.

A. Aims - State clearly the clinical or research significance of the project including how it will identify/test/demonstrate nursing interventions and/or care delivery models that provide the most beneficial outcomes for patients. State concisely and realistically the expected clinical impact of this project, i.e., what the clinical project is intended to accomplish and/or demonstrate.

B. Significance & Background - Briefly describe the clinical or research significance of the project. Be clear what is being demonstrated. Provide a synthesis of the literature in the field(s) that is pertinent to the proposed project. Summarize the rationale or theoretical/conceptual underpinnings for the work. State clearly the relationship of this project to an overall program of scholarship.

E. Time Frame - Provide a timeline for the main steps of the project, including anticipated start and completion dates.

Nursing Research Proposal: Guide, Tips, and Structure

Did you know that a poorly written research proposal is one of the reasons for the rejection of a research application?

Whether you are a nursing student whose goal is to fulfill the course requirements or a nursing researcher looking for funding or a grant, knowing how to write a research proposal is a critical skill. If you are coming from other fields, such as humanities or social sciences, you might be tempted to think that your experience writing a project proposal should be the same. However, that is not the case.

The standards for research proposals in nursing are stricter, given that you might be dealing with human subjects. You need to convince the ethics committee, supervisor, or funder through a well-written and well-organized proposal document.

You have to justify why your problem is worth researching and explain why you chose the strategies you chose to investigate it.

An outstanding quality of a proposal is that it you will always write it in the future tense. Having written thousands of research proposals successfully, we have the expertise to advise you on what to do to succeed.

In this post, expert writers from our online nursing proposal writing service have shared the steps and tips needed to write a great proposal.

What is a Research Proposal in Nursing?

A nursing research proposal is a type of document that convinces a supervisor, university, or committee that you have a worthwhile project, competence, and a plan to execute it. In other words, your nursing research paper proposal is a detailed description of your proposed study. A proposal is based on a study to address a selected nursing topic or to address a hypothesis, nursing problem, or research question. It is about selling your study idea so that you can receive the go-ahead or the funding for its completion.

Your instructor will ask you to write a nursing research paper proposal for the following reasons:

Develop your critical thinking and design skills for a research study.
Practice learning the logical steps when doing research.
Improve your research and writing skills.
Learn to conduct literature reviews to identify a gap in the literature and hence become an expert in locating scholarly writing for your topic.

Please note that your nursing research proposal should not be more than 2000 words. This word count is enough for you to sell your ideas without boring them with irrelevant information.

Some of the weaknesses seen in most nursing research paper proposals are:

Unfocused research proposal titles that lead to rejections from the school.
Unclear statement of the problem.
Incoherent literature review.
Unclear study designs
Wrong choice of research methods

A good research proposal should cover the following: why, how, and what. Asking the right questions will ensure you write a compelling proposal.

How to Format Your Research Proposal

A nursing research proposal must follow the correct structure to ensure you correctly sell your ideas. Our expert nursing research proposal writers suggest that the following parts must be present in your research proposal.

Purpose title for your research
Your full names
The name of your instructor
Your institution and department

NOTE: Depending on the length of your proposal, you might want to include a table of contents and an abstract.

Introduction

Background of the study- It should provide a global, regional, and local overview, narrowing it down to the problem under investigation. The background information should be one and a half pages.
Research problem statements- identify the problem pertaining to the study in question. It should answer the research question in the specific study location.
Research question/ hypothesis- It should be testable and relate to your study objectives.

Literature Review

Demonstrate a deep understanding of the literature in your particular area of nursing.
Identify gaps in existing research.
Explain how the research will solve those gaps.

Methodology

Research design.
Data collection techniques.
Data analysis techniques.

Ethical Considerations

Voluntary participants.
Informed consent.
Confidentiality.
Explain how much time it will take for data production, analysis, and preparation of the final report.
Show how much of a budget you will need for the project.
List all the references alphabetically on a separate page.
Instruments used during the study that will lend further clarity to the proposal (e.g., questionnaire, Interview Schedule, Consent form, Copy of Ethical Approval letter, etc.)

Steps of Writing a Research Proposal

From our assessment, we have noticed that many nursing students and novice researchers do not comprehend the structure of a research proposal. Some do not even recognize its real value, yet it is a powerful research tool.

A shorter research proposal can be 5-8 pages, while there are longer ones that range from 9-30 pages, depending on the complexity of the topic at hand. Before anything else, similar to any other academic activity, it is always prudent to read the instructions. You need to be very deliberate and seek clarification early.

With that being said, writing a comprehensive nursing research paper proposal involves following key steps to ensure your work is structured, organized, and convincing. Here are detailed steps you should follow:

Identify Your Research Topic

The first and most important step to writing a research paper proposal is choosing a great topic. A good research proposal topic is clear, specific, targeted, concise, and convincing.

Brainstorm some topics you are interested in nursing. Focus on current issues in healthcare, particularly nursing, research gaps, and any problems that need immediate solutions. If you are already undertaking clinicals, think of some of the issues that your current clinical setting is facing.

Once you have identified a good topic, conduct preliminary research to help you identify whether there is any existing research or gaps in knowledge. To arrive at a good topic, ask yourself:

What is the topic do I want to study?
Why is it worthwhile to study it?
What practical or valuable problems will it help solve?
How does it build upon—and possibly improve—existing research already done about the topic?
How is it important within the subject areas covered in the course/program or nursing context?
What are the specific tasks that I must plan to do?
Can I get those tasks done within the time and resources available?

Develop a Focused Research Question

Based on the readings you have done, formulate a research question that will guide your whole research and help you clarify your thinking.

Ensure you formulate questions that are specific and focused and can be answered through empirical research. The answer to your research question should be open to scrutiny and be reproduced by other researchers and scientists.

Overall, ensure your research question can contribute meaningfully to nursing practice.

Write Your Introduction

Your nursing research proposal should introduce your topic and show its significance and relevance in the nursing field. The introduction should do the following:

Introduce the research problem and provide a detailed explanation of the aim of your research. This is essential when your research problem is complex.
Provide a rationale for the research proposal. Here, you state why it is essential to conduct the proposed research.
Present the core issues that the proposed research will address.
Introduce the methodology that you will use in your study, such as mixed methods, qualitative, or quantitative methods.
Establish the limits of your study
Define key terms if necessary.

Conduct a Literature Review

Once you have chosen a topic, conduct a literature review of previously published works, which include both academic and professional nursing journal articles. PubMed, EBSCO, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Google Scholar are some of the best areas to start.

Ensure you read and summarize key findings from studies in your area of interest. As you do this, check for trends, gaps, and areas that require further research. Be clear on how your research will contribute to the ongoing discussion in your subject area.

You can achieve this by:

Identify prevailing theories that have limitations.
Review previous studies to identify topics, questions, or problems that do not have adequate backing.
Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches.
Identify studies and foundational theories in your research area.
Explain how you will build on or challenge existing research.

A strong literature review shows readers that you have done enough research and have a solid foundation for your research problem. It also shows that you are not repeating what other researchers in your field have done.

Once you have conducted a thorough literature review, summarize and integrate your findings to provide a clear background and rationale for the study.

Define Your Research Design and Methodology

Identify the methods and design you intend to use to conduct your research. Use these tips:

Select an appropriate research design that aligns with your research question.
Define your target population and the sampling methods to use. Your samples should be representative and sufficient for the study.
Choose reliable data collection methods that provide detailed procedures for how you will collect all the data. Ensure to show how these methods are appropriate to address the topic/problem or your specific research.
Outline your data analysis plan and ensure all those methods are appropriate for the type of data you plan on collecting.
Mention the software that will help in your data analysis. These types of software include NVivo for qualitative data and SPSS or R-programming for quantitative data.

This stage aims to convince readers that your research design and methods will properly address your research problem and answer the research question. In other words, your research design and methods are directly connected to the objectives of your research.

Please take into account that your research should be replicable, so ensure that the methodology is justifiable as well. The best way to achieve this is to draw examples from the literature review.

Address the Ethical Considerations

Nursing research faces moral and ethical problems, which are not common in other research, particularly in data collection. Therefore, ensure that you address the ethical standards when interacting with your participants.

Some institutions will require that if you are to conduct research that involves human participants, you write to the IRB to get the necessary permissions. Ensure that you mention this in your proposal.

Show how you intend to obtain consent from everyone involved in your research. Obtain informed consent from the participants, research site, relevant authorities, and institutional review board. Also, ensure that their information will be kept private and confidential.

State the Timeline

A research proposal timeline is an essential plan showing how you will conduct your study, from the initial ideas to writing the final report. It is important to track your progress.

Set a timeline for each aspect of the research. Break down the project into milestones and deadlines, ensuring a realistic time allocation for each phase. Ensure you consider potential setbacks to maintaining flexibility in your work.

Providing a turnaround time for your research shows readers that your study is doable and can be completed within the time that you have set aside.

Provide a Budget

Some schools will not require you to provide a budgetary allocation for a simple academic research paper. However, if you are required to, please do so; write down how much it will cost to conduct the research from start to finish.

Your budget should include costs for all aspects of the research, Divided like this:

The actual cost of the study- state how much money you will need to conduct the whole research from start to finish. You can include logistical costs, motivation costs, or other miscellaneous costs.
Justification- State why such an amount of money will help you finish the research
Source-explain how you reached that amount.

Provide the References

Just like any other nursing writing, you must include a reference section. A reference section of your research proposal is essential to show what sources you used in the study.

Remember, when conducting research, you are adding information to the nursing field. So, help readers know which sources have helped you contribute to the nursing field by listing them. This will also help readers.

Include the Appendices

The last part of your research paper proposal is the appendices, which provide information about the supplementary material that is not an important part of the main text but still essential to providing a comprehensive understanding of the research. This information may be cumbersome to include in the text.

Revise and Proofread your Proposal

After writing, go through the research paper proposal to check for problems with grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and overall quality of your paper. Many nursing students skip this stage and submit their work the way it is without knowing that it will cost them a good grade.

As you revise your paper, check for the content and organization of the paper. If possible, go back to the research stage and find more information to include in your proposal.

Tips for Writing a Nursing Research Paper Proposal

Writing a research paper proposal is not easy. However, if you know the tips and tricks, it can be a smooth process. Here are some of the tips for research proposal

Follow the Instructions

Please go through the instructions given by your instructor or nursing departments and follow them to the letter. This will ensure that you write a proposal that aligns with the academic standards and expectations of your department.

Every nursing school will have some guidelines about what to do and not to do when writing a research paper proposal; these could include things like:

Topic area to choose.
Data sources.
Methodology requirements.
Expectations on originality, word count, etc.

Following these instructions will demonstrate your commitment to follow instructions, which is an essential skill in nursing.

Additionally, it means that you will structure your research paper proposal effectively and address all the relevant parts, thus increasing the chances of your work being accepted.

Set Aside Enough Time to Write

Writing a proposal is a complex and challenging endeavor because you will need to review various literature, formulate effective research questions, and develop the right methodology. You must also adhere to the academic standards and ensure the significance of your research.

Setting aside enough time to plan, research, write, revise, and address any potential issues in your proposal will ensure you create a compelling paper that passes all scrutiny.

Determine the Feasibility of Your Research Study

One of the biggest considerations instructors must consider when reviewing nursing research paper proposals is the feasibility of the proposed study. You could develop a great research proposal topic, but if there is any doubt about the feasibility of the study, it will be rejected.

Therefore, check your pilot study, available literature, data collection, and analysis methods to ensure your research is doable.

Additionally, it would be best if you communicated that your research is feasible. If you want to convince your instructor or professor, show them that the study is doable. Alleviate all their concerns and prove that you have what it takes to pull off the research.

Use Professional Language

Research proposal writing should use professional and serious language; in other words, an academic voice. Remember you are writing for academic professionals who have certain expectations about your writing. Understanding who your audience is will help you tailor your proposal to fit their needs.

Thus, ensure your research paper proposal demonstrates your voice and not that of other authors or researchers. To achieve this, ensure it comprises of the following:

Makes declarative statements.
Do not use casual language.
Demonstrates authority.

Take Time Away Before Revising and Proofreading

It would be best if you took time away from the research paper proposal before reviewing it for any errors. Take a few hours or days away from your draft, then come back and review it. This will help you look at the paper with fresh eyes and, hence, identify areas that need to be revised.

When revising, ensure you check the focus of the paper. Ensure that your topic is not too broad or narrow. Also, check that you stayed on track throughout the research and answered the research question.

What are Some Good Research Proposal Topics?

Your instructor may provide a topic for your research or ask you to choose one. If this is the case, you must choose a good topic. To get you started, our expert nursing research paper writers have provided a list of research topics for nursing students.

Use of simulation-based training in nursing education.
Nurse-led palliative care initiatives on the quality of life of terminally ill patients and their families.
Post-pregnancy care and health management in women with premature babies.
Improving strategic methods for preventing sexually transmitted diseases.
Cultural competence and how it affects patient satisfaction and outcomes in diverse populations.
Role of nurse-led patient education in encouraging adherence to medication among patients with chronic illnesses.
Effectiveness of telehealth on chronic disease management.
Correlation between nurse staffing levels and patient health outcomes in hospital settings.

Can I Hire Someone to Write My Research Proposal for Me?

Yes, circumstances in our lives make it necessary to delegate such work as writing a research proposal. Thankfully, nursing paper writing services like NurseMyGrade exist for that same purpose.

Writing a nursing research paper proposal is challenging, especially if you lack the necessary experience or do not have time. However, the help of an expert writer can make things easier for you. After all, writing a research paper proposal is part of nursing education and training. It is an essential opportunity to show your skills and understanding of nursing studies and prove that you have the right skills to be a great nurse. When an expert writer works with you, you will understand the flow of things, contribute to the completion of your paper, and gain the confidence you would need during the presentations or defense.

One of the biggest concerns is finding a good research paper writing service. Many online nursing research proposal-writing services promise heaven on earth but fail to deliver. The good thing is that our nursing writers at NurseMyGrade.com can help you; they are the right writing service for any nursing assignment or paper you have. Since we have done this for years, we assure you that:

You will work with an Experienced Writer. Avoid scammers who only want your money by choosing a writer who is experienced in writing research proposals. Our online writing service strictly has a team of experienced nursing writers.
Hire an Expert Writer. Having an expert writer write your research proposal is one way of ensuring that you get a good grade on the assignment. We are strict about hiring only experienced nursing writers with a background in nursing education and practice.
You will get What You Want. Knowing what you want from the assignment and overall nursing education will ensure you do not compromise on your performance. At NurseMyGrade.com, we ensure that you get the best quality papers.

Final Take!

Writing a high-quality research proposal might not be as hard as people claim. With the right guidance and preparation, you can master the skill. Even then, you might want someone to hire to write your nursing proposal paper assignment. If you are looking for a website with professional writers who can walk the journey with you, seek no further.

NurseMyGrade has expert proposal writers with experience in nursing paper writing. We offer affordable nursing proposal writing services. The good thing is that you can access your writer and discuss the topic, research questions or hypotheses, data collection methods, data analysis methods, and any other aspect pertaining to your paper. We guarantee you 100% satisfaction.

You will get a model paper that is organized, structured, and of top quality. We are also reliable. Our quality assurance team ensures that all research paper proposals are original, free of plagiarism, and delivered before the deadline. Feel free to place an order today for a high-quality research paper proposal.

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How to write a nursing research proposal.

100 Latest Nursing Persuasive Essay Topics

Nursing research proposals are an essential part of the nursing profession. They enable nurses to develop and implement evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes. However, crafting a well-written proposal can be daunting for many nurses, especially those with little or no experience in research writing.

This article will guide you through writing a nursing research proposal – from understanding its purpose and components to developing your research question and methodology. Whether you are a novice researcher or an experienced nurse seeking to enhance your research skills, our step-by-step approach will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to create a compelling proposal that meets scholarly standards.

What is a nursing research proposal?

A nursing research proposal is a document that outlines a plan for a study or research project in the field of nursing. It outlines the purpose, methodology, and expected outcomes of the study. The proposal provides an overview of what will be studied and how it will be conducted.

The purpose of a nursing research proposal is to guide the feasibility and potential impact of a particular study. It helps researchers determine whether their proposed study can be completed within a specific timeframe, with available resources, and if it has enough significance to warrant funding.

Nursing research proposal format

The format for a nursing research proposal should be clear, concise, and well-organized to enable the target audience to comprehend the study’s purpose easily. The first section of the nursing research proposal should include the following;

Introduction/background of the proposed topic
The literature review
The methodology section
Data collection and analysis
Ethical considerations (if any)
Conclusion/implications

Tips on how to write a Nursing research proposal

Start by identifying a topic that interests you and aligns with your career goals
Conduct a thorough literature review to identify gaps in existing knowledge and establish the rationale for your study
Clearly state your research question or hypothesis and explain why it is important to address this issue in the field of nursing
Clearly define your objectives and research questions
Outline your methodology, including data collection methods, sampling strategy, and statistical analysis plan
Include information on how to analyze data once it is collected
Finally, don’t forget about formatting!

How to write a Nursing research proposal

The proposal should clearly and concisely summarize your research goals, objectives, methods, and expected outcomes. Writing a successful nursing research proposal requires careful planning, attention to detail, and an understanding of the essential elements necessary for a strong proposal.

The abstract of a nursing research proposal

The abstract of a nursing research proposal is the first glimpse into the study being conducted. It summarizes the research question, methodology, and expected outcomes. The abstract should be clear and concise to grab readers’ attention and encourage them to read further.

In the abstract, it is essential to include information about the population being studied and any inclusion or exclusion criteria. This helps readers understand to whom the study will apply and whether they fit within those parameters. Additionally, it is crucial to provide information about any interventions or treatments being tested and how data will be collected and analyzed.

Overall, the abstract serves as a roadmap for readers to understand what they can expect from reading further into the research proposal. By providing a detailed summary of key elements of the study, you can help ensure that your work is accessible and understood by all interested parties.

Research proposal introduction

An effective introduction should provide a clear and concise overview of what the study aims to achieve, including its purpose, objectives, and significance. In crafting an introduction section for a nursing research proposal, identify a gap in existing knowledge on your subject matter. The introduction should address this gap by providing background information contextualizing their research question.

This may involve citing relevant literature or previous studies and highlighting how their proposed research will build on these existing works. Furthermore, in writing an introduction section for a nursing research proposal, it is important to provide readers with an understanding of why your study matters.

Literature view

The literature review thoroughly examines existing scholarly works related to the proposed research topic. The literature review aims to identify gaps in knowledge, highlight areas where further investigation is needed, and provide context for the proposed study.

In conducting a literature review for a nursing research proposal, systematically searching relevant databases such as PubMed or CINAHL is crucial. The selection of articles should be based on their relevance to the research question and inclusion criteria established by the researcher.

It is also essential to evaluate each article critically using tools such as CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) or GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) to ensure high-quality evidence.

The methodology section of a nursing research proposal

The methodology section of a nursing research proposal outlines the procedures and techniques used in conducting the study. The methodology section helps researchers design their study and effectively answer their research questions or hypothesis.

The methodology section should describe the type of study design used in the research proposal. Common types of designs include experimental, descriptive, and correlational studies, among others. You should explain how they will recruit participants for their research and provide information on sample size calculation.

Describe the data collection methods used in their proposed study. This could be through questionnaires, interviews, or focus group discussions, depending on the nature of the research question under investigation.

The Conclusion of a nursing research proposal

In this section, you can demonstrate how your study will contribute to nursing practices and make significant changes in healthcare. In crafting a conclusion section, it is essential to begin by restating the purpose and objectives of your study.

This helps readers who may have skipped some parts of your proposal understand what you intend to achieve with your research. Subsequently, outline key findings from each part of your study, such as literature review, methodology, or data analysis. Finally, highlight how these findings answer or contribute towards addressing your research questions or hypothesis.

Nursing research proposal APA

If you’re writing a nursing research proposal in APA format, there are several essential elements you’ll need to include. First and foremost, your proposal should clearly state the problem or issue you intend to investigate. This should be followed by a thorough review of relevant literature, demonstrating your understanding of the current knowledge on the topic.

Next, you’ll need to describe your proposed methods for collecting and analyzing data. This section should be detailed enough that someone else could replicate your study based on your description alone.

It should also demonstrate that you’ve carefully considered potential ethical issues and have plans to address them. Finally, you’ll need to outline any expected results or conclusions from the study and their implications for future research or practice.

Nursing research proposal topics

Nursing research proposal topics can be challenging to come up with, but they are essential for anyone who wants to make a difference in the healthcare industry. Many areas of nursing need further exploration, and a well-crafted research proposal can help identify gaps in knowledge and lead to better patient outcomes. Whether starting your academic career or looking to advance your current position, here are some ideas for nursing research proposal topics.

Pain management
Mental health
Ways to improve patient care in Long-term care Facilities
The Impact of online education on nursing students’ learning outcomes
The relationship between nursing burnout and medical errors
The effects of nurse-to-patient ratios on patient outcomes
Alternative therapies
The Impact of nurse-led interventions on improving patient outcomes
How technology can enhance communication between nurses and patients during hospital stays
Telehealth consultations
The impact of nurse-led interventions on reducing hospital readmissions rates for elderly patients
The Impact of nurse-led interventions on patient outcomes
Patient Safety in healthcare delivery settings
The Effect of stress management techniques on healthcare workers’ job satisfaction
Chronic illness management
The impact of patient education on medication adherence among elderly patients
The experiences of nurses working in intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic
The effects of stress on nurses in different healthcare settings
The effectiveness of different pain management strategies in post-operative patients
The effectiveness of telehealth technology in improving patient outcomes

Nursing research proposal example

One example of a nursing research proposal could be examining the effects of mindfulness meditation on reducing nurse burnout rates. This study would explore whether regular mindfulness practice can help nurses manage stress levels and prevent burnout.

The study’s methodology would likely involve recruiting participants from several hospitals and providing them with training on mindfulness techniques over a certain period. Data analysis would then examine any changes in stress levels or overall well-being among participants before and after the intervention.

Bottom line

Writing a nursing research proposal can be daunting, but with the right approach and resources, it can become an achievable goal. The key is to identify a relevant and exciting topic, conduct thorough research, develop an outline that clearly outlines your objectives and methodology, and present your findings clearly and concisely. With these tips in mind, you are on your way to creating a compelling nursing research proposal that will meaningfully contribute to healthcare. So go ahead and start working on your proposal today!

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Nursing Research Proposal Template: A Comprehensive Guide + Free Template Download + How to Write it

Creating a strong foundation: the importance of a nursing research proposal template.

As a nursing professional, I understand the critical importance of thorough research in the healthcare field. Developing a nursing research proposal is a crucial step in the research process , as it provides a roadmap for conducting and evaluating the study. However, creating a research proposal from scratch can be a time-consuming task. That’s why having a nursing research proposal template can be incredibly valuable. It not only streamlines the proposal writing process, but also ensures that all essential components are included. In this article, we will explore why a nursing research proposal template is important, and how it differs from a standard research proposal .

Nursing Research Proposal Template

Example: The Impact of Music Therapy on Pain Management in Pediatric Patients

Background and Statement of the Problem: Example: Pain management in pediatric patients is a critical aspect of their care, and traditional methods have limitations and side effects. Music therapy has shown promise in reducing pain perception and anxiety in various patient populations. However, its efficacy in pediatric patients needs further exploration to inform evidence-based practice.

My advice on : In this section, clearly outline the background of your research topic and the specific problem you aim to address. Use evidence-based information to support the significance of your study.

Purpose of the Study: Example: The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of music therapy on pain perception and anxiety levels in pediatric patients receiving treatment in a hospital setting. The findings will contribute to the development of non-pharmacological pain management interventions for this population.

My advice on : Clearly state the goal of your study and its potential impact on nursing practice. Highlight the contribution your research will make to the field of nursing.

Literature Review : Example: Previous research has shown that music therapy can have a positive impact on pain management in adult patients undergoing various medical procedures. Studies by Bradt et al. (2016) and Good et al. (2018) reported significant reductions in pain scores and anxiety levels among adult patients receiving music therapy. However, there is limited evidence on the efficacy of music therapy in pediatric patients, particularly in a hospital setting.

My advice on : Conduct a thorough literature review to identify gaps in existing research and support the need for your study. Critically analyze the findings of previous studies and their implications for your research.

Research Design and Methods: Example: This study will employ a randomized controlled trial design, with pediatric patients aged 6-12 years randomly assigned to either the intervention group, receiving music therapy, or the control group, receiving standard care. Pain scores and anxiety levels will be assessed before and after the intervention using validated pediatric assessment tools. Data analysis will be performed using statistical software to compare the outcomes between the two groups.

My advice on: Clearly outline the research design and methods you will use, ensuring they are appropriate for addressing your research question . Describe the statistical methods you will employ to analyze the data and justify their suitability for your study.

Timeline and Budget: Example: The study is anticipated to span over 12 months, including participant recruitment , intervention implementation, and data collection . The estimated budget for this study includes the cost of hiring a certified music therapist, purchasing musical instruments, and securing ethical approval for conducting research with pediatric patients.

My advice on: Provide a realistic timeline for each phase of your study, taking into account potential challenges and delays. Create a detailed budget that justifies the resources required for your research and aligns with the scope of your study.

Conclusion:

The proposed study on the impact of music therapy on pain management in pediatric patients addresses a significant gap in the current literature and has the potential to contribute valuable evidence to nursing practice. By following the structure and examples provided in the nursing research proposal template, researchers can effectively communicate the rationale, purpose, and methods of their study, ultimately enhancing the quality and impact of their research endeavors.

Download free Nursing Research Proposal Template in Word DocX, Powerpoint PPTX, and PDF. We included Nursing Research Proposal Template examples as well.

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Nursing Research Proposal Template FAQs

1. what is a nursing research proposal.

A nursing research proposal is a document that outlines a proposed research study in the field of nursing. It includes a research question, background information , methodology, and potential implications for nursing practice.

2. What should be included in a nursing research proposal?

A nursing research proposal should include a clear research question, a review of relevant literature, a detailed methodology, potential implications for nursing practice, and a list of references.

3. What is the purpose of a nursing research proposal?

The purpose of a nursing research proposal is to outline a potential research study and gain approval from relevant stakeholders, such as academic institutions or funding organizations . It also helps researchers clarify their ideas and ensure that their study is feasible and ethical.

4. How should the methodology section of a nursing research proposal be structured?

The methodology section of a nursing research proposal should include details on the research design , data collection methods, data analysis procedures, and any potential limitations or ethical considerations . It should be structured in a clear and precise manner to ensure that the study can be accurately replicated by others.

5. What are the potential implications for nursing practice in a research proposal?

The potential implications for nursing practice in a research proposal are the potential ways in which the study’s findings could impact nursing care, policies, or education. This could include improved patient outcomes, changes to nursing interventions, or new approaches to nursing education.

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A guide to writing grant proposals for nursing research

Affiliations.

1 Cizik School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
2 College of Nursing & Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
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DOI: 10.1002/nur.22137

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Writing Research Proposals

Chapter 28 Writing Research Proposals http://evolve.elsevier.com/Grove/practice/ With a background in the quantitative, qualitative, outcomes, and intervention research methodologies, you are ready to propose a study. A research proposal is a written plan that identifies the major elements of a study, such as the research problem, purpose, and framework, and outlines the methods and procedures to conduct the proposed study. A proposal is a formal way to communicate ideas about a study to seek approval to conduct the study and obtain funding. Researchers who are seeking approval to conduct a study submit the proposal to a select group for review and, in many situations, verbally defend the proposal. Receiving approval to conduct research has become more complicated because of the increasing complexity of nursing studies, the difficulty involved in recruiting study participants, and increasing concerns over legal and ethical issues. In many large hospitals and healthcare corporations, both the lawyer and the institutional review board (IRB) evaluate the research proposals. The expanded number of healthcare studies being conducted has led to conflict among investigators over who has the right to recruit potential research participants. The increased number of proposed studies has resulted in greater difficulty in obtaining funding. Researchers need to develop a quality study proposal to facilitate university and clinical agency IRB approval, obtain funding, and conduct the study successfully. This chapter focuses on writing a research proposal and seeking approval to conduct a study. Chapter 29 presents the process of seeking funding for research. Writing a Research Proposal A well-written proposal communicates a significant, carefully planned research project; shows the qualifications of the researchers; and generates support for the project. Conducting research requires precision and rigorous attention to detail. Reviewers often judge a researcher’s ability to conduct a study by the quality of the proposal. A quality study proposal is clear, concise, and complete. Writing a quality proposal involves (1) developing ideas logically, (2) determining the depth or detail of the content of the proposal, (3) identifying critical points in the proposal, and (4) developing an esthetically appealing copy ( Martin & Fleming, 2010 ; Merrill, 2011 ; Offredy & Vickers, 2010 ). Developing Ideas Logically The ideas in a research proposal must logically build on each other to justify or defend a study, just as a lawyer would logically organize information in the defense of a client. The researcher builds a case to justify why a problem should be studied and proposes the appropriate methodology for conducting the study. Each step in the research proposal builds on the problem statement to give a clear picture of the study and its merit ( Merrill, 2011 ). Universities, medical centers, federal funding agencies, and grant writing consultants have developed websites to help researchers write successful proposals for quantitative, qualitative, outcomes, and intervention research. For example, the University of Michigan provides an online guide for proposal development ( http://www.drda.umich.edu/proposals/PWG/pwgcomplete.html ). The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR, 2012 ) provides online training for developing nurse scientists at http://www.ninr.nih.gov/Training/OnlineDevelopingNurseScientists/ . You can use a search engine of your choice, such as Google, and search for research proposal development training; proposal writing tips; courses on proposal development; and proposal guidelines for different universities, medical centers, and government agencies. In addition, various publications have been developed to help individuals improve their scientific writing skills ( American Psychological Association [APA], 2010 ; Offredy & Vickers, 2010 ; Turabian, Booth, Colomb, & Williams, 2007 ; University of Chicago Press Staff, 2010 ). Determining the Depth of a Proposal The depth or detail of the content of a proposal is determined by guidelines developed by colleges or schools of nursing, funding agencies, and institutions where research is conducted. Guidelines provide specific directions for the development of a proposal and should be followed explicitly. Omission or misinterpretation of a guideline is frequently the basis for rejection or requiring revision. In addition to following the guidelines, you need to determine the amount of information necessary to describe each step of your study clearly. Often the reviewers of your proposal have varied expertise in the area of your study. The content in a proposal needs to be detailed enough to inform different types of readers yet concise enough to be interesting and easily reviewed ( Martin & Fleming, 2010 ). The guidelines often stipulate a page limit, which determines the depth of the proposal. The relevant content of a research proposal is discussed later in this chapter and varies based on the purpose of the proposal. Identifying Critical Points The key or critical points in a proposal must be evident, even to a hasty reader. You might highlight your critical points with bold or italicized type. Sometimes researchers create headings to emphasize critical content, or they may organize the content into tables or graphs. It is critical in a proposal to detail the background and significance of the research problem and purpose, study methodology, and research production plans (data collection and analysis plan, personnel, schedule, and budget) ( APA, 2010 ; Offredy & Vickers, 2010 ; Turabian et al., 2007 ). Developing an Esthetically Appealing Copy An esthetically appealing copy is typed without spelling, punctuation, or grammatical errors. A proposal with excellent content that is poorly typed or formatted is not likely to receive the full attention or respect of the reviewers. The format used in typing the proposal should follow the guidelines developed by the reviewers or organization. If no particular format is requested, researchers commonly follow APA (2010) format. An appealing copy is legible (the print is dark enough to be read) with appropriate tables and figures to communicate essential information. You need to submit the proposal by the means requested as a mailed hard copy, an email attachment, or uploaded file. Content of a Research Proposal The content of a proposal is written with the interest and expertise of the reviewers in mind. Proposals are typically reviewed by faculty, clinical agency IRB members, and representatives of funding institutions. The content of a proposal varies with the reviewers, the guidelines developed for the review, and the type of study (quantitative or qualitative) proposed. This section addresses the content of (1) a student proposal for both quantitative and qualitative studies, (2) condensed research proposals, and (3) preproposals. Content of a Student Proposal Student researchers develop proposals to communicate their research projects to the faculty and members of university and agency IRBs (see Chapter 9 for details on IRB membership and the approval process). Student proposals are written to satisfy requirements for a degree and are usually developed according to guidelines outlined by the faculty. The faculty member who will be assisting with the research project (the chair of the student’s thesis or dissertation committee) generally reviews these guidelines with the student. Each faculty member has a unique way of interpreting and emphasizing aspects of the guidelines. In addition, a student needs to evaluate the faculty member’s background regarding a research topic of interest and determine whether a productive working relationship can be developed. Faculty members who are actively involved in their own research have extensive knowledge and expertise that can be helpful to a novice researcher. Both the student and the faculty member benefit when a student becomes involved in an aspect of the faculty member’s research. This collaborative relationship can lead to the development of essential knowledge for providing evidenced-based nursing practice ( Brown, 2009 ; Craig & Smyth, 2012 ; Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011 ). The content of a student proposal usually requires greater detail than a proposal developed for an agency or funding organization. The proposal is often the first three or four chapters of the student’s thesis or dissertation, and the proposed study is discussed in the future tense—that is, what the student will do in conducting the research. A student research proposal usually includes a title page with the title of the proposal, the name and credentials of the investigator, university name, and the date. You need to devote time to developing the title so that it accurately reflects the scope and content of the proposed study ( Martin & Fleming, 2010 ). Content of a Quantitative Research Proposal A quantitative research proposal usually includes a table of contents that reflects the following chapters or sections: (1) introduction, (2) review of relevant literature, (3) framework, and (4) methods and procedures. Some graduate schools require in-depth development of these sections, whereas others require a condensed version of the same content. Another approach is that proposals for theses and dissertations be written in a format that can be transformed into a publication. Table 28-1 outlines the content often covered in the chapters of a student quantitative research proposal. TABLE 28-1 Quantitative Research Proposal Guidelines for Students Chapter I Introduction A. Background and significance of the problem B. Statement of the problem C. Statement of the purpose Chapter II Review of Relevant Literature A. Review of theoretical literature B. Review of relevant research C. Summary Chapter III Framework A. Development of a framework (Develop a map of the study framework, define concepts in the map, describe relationships or propositions in the map, indicate the focus of the study, and link concepts to study variables) B. Formulation of objectives, questions, or hypotheses C. Definitions (conceptual and operational) of study variables D. Definition of relevant terms Chapter IV Methods and Procedures A. Description of the research design (Model of the design, strengths and weaknesses of the design validity) B. Identification of the population and sample (Sample size, use of power analysis, sample criteria, and sampling method including strengths and weaknesses) C. Selection of a setting (Strengths and weaknesses of the setting) D. Presentation of ethical considerations (Protection of subjects’ rights and university and healthcare agency review processes) E. Description of the intervention if appropriate for the type of study (Provide a protocol for implementing the intervention, detail who will implement the intervention, and describe how intervention fidelity is ensured) F. Selection of measurement methods (Reliability, validity, scoring, and level of measurement of the instruments as well as plans for examining reliability and validity of the instruments in the present study; precision and accuracy of physiological measures) G. Plan for data collection (Data collection process, training of data collectors if appropriate, schedule, data collection forms, and management of data) H. Plan for data analysis (Analysis of demographic data; analyses for research objectives, questions, or hypotheses; level of significance if appropriate; and other analysis techniques) I. Identification of limitations (Methodological and theoretical limitations) J. Discussion of communication of findings References Include references cited in the proposal and follow APA (2010) format Appendices Presentation of a study budget and timetable Introduction The introductory chapter identifies the research topic and problem and discusses their significance and background. The significance of the problem addresses its importance in nursing practice and the expected generalizability of the findings. The magnitude of a problem is partly determined by the interest of nurses; other healthcare professionals; policy makers; and healthcare consumers at the local, state, national, or international level. You can document this interest with sources from the literature. The background describes how the problem was identified and historically links the problem to nursing practice. Your background information might also include one or two major studies conducted to resolve the problem, some key theoretical ideas related to the problem, and possible solutions to the problem. The background and significance form the basis for your problem statement, which identifies what is not known and the need for further research. Follow your problem statement with a succinct statement of the research purpose or the goal of the study (see Chapter 5 ) ( Martin & Fleming, 2010 ; Merrill, 2011 ). Review of Relevant Literature The review of relevant literature provides an overview of the essential information that will guide you as you develop your study and includes relevant theoretical and empirical literature (see Table 28-1 ). Theoretical literature provides a background for defining and interrelating relevant study concepts, whereas empirical literature includes a summary and critical appraisal of previous studies. Here you will discuss the recommendations made by other researchers, such as changing or expanding a study, in relation to the proposed study. The depth of the literature review varies; it might include only recent studies and theorists’ works, or it might be extensive and include a description and critical appraisal of many past and current studies and an in-depth discussion of theorists’ works. The literature review might be presented in a narrative format or in a pinch table that summarizes relevant studies (see Chapter 6 ) ( Pinch, 1995 ). The literature review shows that you have a command of the current empirical and theoretical knowledge regarding the proposed problem ( Merrill, 2011 ; Offredy & Vickers, 2010 ). This chapter concludes with a summary. The summary includes a synthesis of the theoretical literature and findings from previous research that describe the current knowledge of a problem ( Merrill, 2011 ). Gaps in the knowledge base are also identified, with a description of how the proposed study is expected to contribute to the nursing knowledge needed for evidence-based practice. Framework A framework provides the basis for generating and refining the research problem and purpose and linking them to the relevant theoretical knowledge in nursing or related fields. The framework includes concepts and relationships among concepts or propositions, which are sometimes represented in a model or a map (see Chapter 7 ). Middle-range theories from nursing and other disciplines are frequently used as frameworks for quantitative studies, and the proposition or propositions to be tested from the theory need to be identified ( Smith & Liehr, 2008 ). The framework needs to include the concepts to be examined in the study, their definitions, and their link to the study variables (see Table 28-1 ). If you use another theorist’s or researcher’s model from a journal article or book, letters documenting permission to use this model from the publisher and the theorist or researcher need to be included in your proposal appendices. In some studies, research objectives, questions, or hypotheses are developed to direct the study (see Chapter 8 ). The objectives, questions, or hypotheses evolve from the research purpose and study framework, in particular the proposition to be tested, and identify the study variables. The variables are conceptually defined to show the link to the framework, and they are operationally defined to describe the procedures for manipulating or measuring the study variables. You also will need to define any relevant terms and to identify assumptions that provide a basis for your study. Methods and Procedures The researcher describes the design or general strategy for conducting the study, sometimes including a diagram of the design (see Chapter 11 ). Designs for descriptive and correlational studies are flexible and can be unique to the study being conducted ( Kerlinger & Lee, 2000 ). Because of this uniqueness, the descriptions need to include the design’s strengths and weaknesses. Presenting designs for quasi-experimental and experimental studies involves (1) describing how the research situation will be structured; (2) detailing the treatment to be implemented ( Chlan, Guttormson, & Savik, 2011 ); (3) explaining how the effect of the treatment will be measured; (4) specifying the variables to be controlled and the methods for controlling them; (5) identifying uncontrolled extraneous variables and determining their impact on the findings; (6) describing the methods for assigning subjects to the treatment group, comparison or control group, or placebo group; and (7) exploring the strengths and weaknesses of the design ( Shadish, Cook, & Campbell, 2002 ). The design needs to account for all the objectives, questions, or hypotheses identified in the proposal. If a pilot study is planned, the design should include the procedure for conducting the pilot and for incorporating the results into the proposed study (see Table 28-1 ). Your proposal should identify the target population to which your study findings will be generalized and the accessible population from which the sample will be selected. You need to outline the inclusion and exclusion criteria you will use to select a study participant or subject and present the rationale for these sample criteria. For example, a participant might be selected according to the following sample criteria: female, age 18 to 60 years, hospitalized, and 1 day status post abdominal surgery. The rationale for these criteria might be that the researcher wants to examine the effects of a selected pain management intervention on women who have recently undergone hospitalization and abdominal surgery. The sampling method and the approximate sample size are discussed in terms of their adequacy and limitations in investigating the research purpose ( Thompson, 2002 ). A power analysis usually is conducted to determine an adequate sample size to identify significant relationships and differences in studies (see Chapter 15 ) ( Aberson, 2010 ). A proposal includes a description of the proposed study setting, which frequently includes the name of the agency and the structure of the units or sites where the study is to be conducted. The specific setting is often identified in the proposal but not in the final research report. The agency you select should have the potential to generate the type and size of sample required for the study. Your proposal might include the number of individuals who meet the sample criteria and are cared for by the agency in a given time period. In addition, the structure and activities in the agency need to be able to accommodate the proposed design of the study. If you are not affiliated with this agency, it would be helpful if you had a letter of support for your study from the agency. Ethical considerations in a proposal include the rights of the subjects and the rights of the agency where the study is to be conducted. Describe how you plan to protect subjects’ rights as well as the risks and potential benefits of your study. Also, address the steps you will take to reduce any risks that the study might present. Many agencies require a written consent form, and that form is often included in the appendices of the proposal. With the implementation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), healthcare agencies and providers must have a signed authorization form from patients to release their health information for research. You must also address the risks and potential benefits of the study for the institution ( Martin & Fleming, 2010 ; Offredy & Vickers, 2010 ). If your study places the agency at risk, outline the steps you will take to reduce or eliminate these risks. It is also necessary for you to state that the proposal will be reviewed by the thesis or dissertation committee, university IRB, and agency IRB. Some quantitative studies are focused on testing the effectiveness of an intervention, such as quasi-experimental studies or randomized controlled trials. In these types of studies, the elements of the intervention and the process for implementing the intervention must be detailed ( Bulecheck, Butcher, & Dochterman, 2008 ). You need to develop a protocol that details the elements of the intervention and the process for implementing them (see Chapter 14 and the example quasi-experimental study proposal at the end of this chapter). Intervention fidelity needs to be ensured during a study so that the intervention is consistently implemented to designated study participants ( Chlan et al., 2011 ; Santacroce, Maccarelli, & Grey, 2004 ). Describe the methods you will use to measure study variables, including each instrument’s reliability, validity, methods of scoring, and level of measurement (see Chapter 16 ). A plan for examining the reliability and validity of the instruments in the present study needs to be addressed. If an instrument has no reported reliability and validity, you may need to conduct a pilot study to examine these qualities. If the intent of the proposed study is to develop an instrument, describe the process of instrument development ( Waltz, Strickland, & Lenz, 2010 ). If physiological measures are used, address the accuracy, precision, sensitivity, selectivity, and error rate of the instrument ( Ryan-Wenger, 2010 ). A copy of the interview questions, questionnaires, scales, physiological measures, or other tools to be used in the study is usually included in the proposal appendices (see Chapter 17 ). You must obtain permission from the authors to use copyrighted instruments, and letters documenting that permission has been obtained must be included in the proposal appendices. The data collection plan clarifies what data are to be collected and the process for collecting the data. In this plan you will identify the data collectors, describe the data collection procedures, and present a schedule for data collection activities. If more than one person will be involved in data collection, it is important to describe methods used to train your data collectors to ensure consistency. The method of recording data is often described, and sample data recording sheets are placed in the proposal appendices. Also, discuss any special equipment you will use or develop to collect data for the study, and address data security, including the methods of data storage (see Chapter 20 ). The plan for data analysis identifies the analysis techniques that will be used to summarize the demographic data and answer the research objectives, questions, or hypotheses. The analysis section is best organized by the study objectives, questions, or hypotheses. The analysis techniques identified need to be appropriate for the type of data collected ( Grove, 2007 ). For example, if an associative hypothesis is developed, correlational analysis is planned. If a researcher plans to determine differences among groups, the analysis techniques might include a t -test or analysis of variance (ANOVA) ( Munro, 2005 ). A level of significance (α = 0.05, 0.01, or 0.001) is also identified (see Chapters 21 through 25 ). Often, a researcher projects the type of results that will be generated from data analysis. Dummy tables, graphs, and charts can be developed to present these results and are included in the proposal appendices if required by the guidelines. The researcher might project possible findings for a study and indicate what support or nonsupport of a proposed hypothesis would mean in light of the study framework and previous research findings. The methods and procedures chapter of a proposal usually concludes with a discussion of the study’s limitations and a plan for communication of the findings. Both methodological and theoretical limitations are addressed. Methodological limitations might include areas of weakness in the design, sampling method, sample size, measurement tools, data collection procedures, or data analysis techniques; theoretical limitations set boundaries for the generalization of study findings. The accuracy with which the conceptual definitions and relational statements in a theory reflect reality has a direct impact on the generalization of study findings. Theory that has withstood frequent testing through research provides a stronger framework for the interpretation and generalization of findings. A plan is included for communicating the research through presentations to audiences of nurses, other health professionals, policy makers, and healthcare consumers and publication (see Chapter 27 ). A budget and timetable are frequently included in the proposal appendices. The budget projects the expenses for the study, which might include the cost for data collection tools and procedures; special equipment; consultants for data analysis; computer time; travel related to data collection and analysis; typing; copying; and developing, presenting, and publishing the final report. Study budgets requesting external funding for researchers’ time include investigators’ salaries and secretarial costs. You need a timetable to direct the steps of your research project and increase the chance that you will complete the project on schedule. A timetable identifies the tasks to be done, who will accomplish these tasks, and when these tasks will be completed. An example proposal for a quasi-experimental study is presented at the end of this chapter to guide you in developing your study proposal. Content of a Qualitative Research Proposal Qualitative research proposal guidelines are unique for the development of knowledge and theories using various qualitative research methods. A qualitative proposal usually includes the following content areas: (1) introduction; (2) research philosophy and general method; (3) applied method of inquiry; and (4) current knowledge, limitations, and plans for communication of the study findings ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Munhall, 2012 ; Patton, 2002 ; Sandelowski, Davis, & Harris, 1989 ). Guidelines are presented in Table 28-2 to assist you in developing a qualitative research proposal. TABLE 28-2 Qualitative Research Proposal Guidelines for Students Chapter I Introduction A. Identify the phenomenon to be studied B. Identify the study purpose or aim and its significance C. State the study questions or objectives D. Describe the evolution of the study 1. Provide a rationale for conducting study 2. Place the study in context historically 3. Discuss the researcher’s experience with phenomenon 4. Discuss the relevance of the study to nursing Chapter II Philosophical and Conceptual Foundation and General Method for the Proposed Study A. Identify the type of qualitative research (phenomenological research, grounded theory research, ethnographic research, exploratory-descriptive qualitative research, and historical research) to be conducted B. Describe the philosophical and theoretical basis for the research method C. Explain the research assumptions D. Discuss the general steps, procedures, and outcomes for this method E. Translation of concepts or terms Chapter III Method of Inquiry A. Demonstrate the researcher’s credentials for conducting this qualitative study B. Select a site and population C. Describe the plan for the researcher’s role in the following 1. Entry into the site and approval to collect data 2. Selection of study participants 3. Ethical considerations D. Describe the plan for data collection 1. Data to be collected 2. Procedures for data collection 3. Procedures for recording data during data collection E. Describe the plan for data analysis conducted with data collection 1. Steps for coding information 2. Use of specific data analysis procedures advanced in the specific research method (phenomenology research, grounded theory research, ethnography research, exploratory-descriptive qualitative research, and historical research) 3. Steps to be taken to verify the information Chapter IV Current Knowledge, Limitations, and Plans for Communication of the Study A. Summarize and reference relevant literature as appropriate for the type of qualitative study B. Disclose anticipated findings, hypotheses, and hunches C. Discuss procedures to remain open to unexpected information D. Discuss limitations of the study E. Identify plans for communication of findings ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Munhall, 2012 ) References Include references cited in the proposal and follow APA (2010) format Appendices Present the study budget and timetable Introduction The introduction usually provides a general background for the proposed study by identifying the phenomenon, clinical problem, issue, or situation to be investigated and linking it to nursing knowledge. The general aim or purpose of the study is identified and provides the focus for the qualitative study to be conducted. The study purpose might be followed by research questions that direct the investigation ( Munhall, 2012 ; Offredy & Vickers, 2010 ). For example, a possible aim or purpose for an ethnographic study might be to “describe the coping processes of Mexican American adults with type 2 diabetes receiving care in a federally funded clinic.” The research questions might focus on the influences of real-world problems, cultural elements, and the clinic environment on the coping processes of these adults. Thus, the study questions might include any of the following: How do Mexican American adults respond to a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes? What is the impact of type 2 diabetes on Mexican American adults and their families over time? What community, clinic, and family types of support exist for Mexican American adults with type 2 diabetes? What does it mean to Mexican American adults to have their diabetes under control? The introduction also includes the evolution of the study and its significance to nursing practice, patients, the healthcare system, and health policy. The discussion of the evolution of the study often includes how the problem developed (historical context), who or what is affected by the problem, and the researcher’s experience with the problem (experiential context). Whenever possible, the significance and evolution of the study purpose needs to be documented from the literature ( Munhall, 2012 ). The significance of a study may include the number of people affected, how this phenomenon affects health and quality of life, and the consequences of not understanding this phenomenon. Marshall and Rossman (2011) identified the following questions to assess the significance of a study: (1) Who has an interest in this domain of inquiry? (2) What do we already know about the topic? (3) What has not been answered adequately in previous research and practice? (4) How will this research add to knowledge, practice, and policy in this area? The introduction section concludes with an overview of the remaining sections that are covered in the proposal. Philosophical and Conceptual Foundation and General Methods for the Proposed Study This section introduces the philosophical and conceptual foundation for the qualitative research method (phenomenological research, ethnographic research, grounded theory research, exploratory-descriptive qualitative research, or historical research) selected for the proposed study. The researcher provides a rationale for the qualitative method selected and discusses its ability to generate the knowledge needed in nursing (see Table 28-1 ). The investigator introduces the philosophy, essential elements of the philosophy, and the assumptions for the specific type of qualitative research to be conducted. The philosophy varies for the different types of qualitative research and guides the conduct of the study. For example, a proposal for a phenomenological study might indicate the purpose of the study is to understand the experience of young and middle-aged women receiving news about a family BRCA 1/2 genetic mutation. “The specific study aims are to (a) describe the experiences of women learning about a family BRCA 1/2 mutation, (b) describe the meaning of genetic risk to female biologic relatives of BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers, and (3) gain an understanding of practical knowledge used in living with risk” ( Crotser & Dickerson, 2010 , p. 367). Genetic testing has determined that 5% to 10% of breast cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations such as BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 . “Heideggerian hermeneutic phenomenology was selected to guide this study.… By listening to the stories of women who lived the experience, HCPs [healthcare providers] will understand the meaning of living with risk through the language used to express their life view ( Heidegger, 1975 )” ( Crotser & Dickerson, 2010 , p. 358). Assumptions about the nature of the knowledge and the reality that underlie the type of qualitative research to be conducted are also identified. The assumptions and philosophy provide a theoretical perspective for the study that influences the focus of the study, data collection and analysis, and articulation of the findings. Method of Inquiry Developing and implementing the methodology of qualitative research require an expertise that some believe can be obtained only through a mentorship relationship with an experienced qualitative researcher. The role of the researcher and the intricate techniques of data collection and analysis are thought to be best communicated through a one-to-one relationship. Thus, planning the methods of a qualitative study requires knowledge of relevant sources that describe the different qualitative research techniques and procedures ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Miles & Huberman, 1994 ; Munhall, 2012 ; Patton, 2002 ), in addition to requiring interaction with a qualitative researcher. The proposal needs to reflect the researcher’s credentials for conducting the particular type of qualitative study proposed (see Chapter 12 for details on qualitative research methods). Identifying the methods for conducting a qualitative study is a difficult task because sometimes the specifics of the study design emerge during the study. In contrast to quantitative research, in which the design is a fixed blueprint for a study, the design in qualitative research emerges or evolves as the study is conducted. You must document the logic and appropriateness of the qualitative method and develop a tentative plan for conducting your study. Because this plan is tentative, researchers reserve the right to modify or change the plan as needed during the conduct of the study ( Sandelowski et al., 1989 ). However, the design or plan must be (1) consistent with the philosophical approach, study purpose, and specific research aims or questions; (2) be well conceived; and (3) address prior criticism, as appropriate ( Fawcett & Garity, 2009 ). The tentative plan describes the process for selecting a site and population and the initial steps taken to gain access to the site. Having access to the site includes establishing relationships that facilitate recruitment of the participants necessary to address the research purpose and answer the research questions. For the research question, “How do Mexican American adults cope with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes while receiving care in federally funded clinics?” the participants might be identified in a specific clinic or by contacting particular healthcare providers. Although initial contact might be made through a clinic, the interviews and observations might occur in the community, at family gatherings, or in the participants’ homes. The researcher must gain entry into the setting, develop a rapport with the participants that will facilitate the detailed data collection process, and protect the rights of the participants ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Sandelowski et al., 1989 ). You need to address the following questions in describing the researcher’s role: (1) What is the best setting for the study? (2) How will I ease my entry into the research site? (3) How will I gain access to the participants? (4) What actions will I take to encourage the participants to cooperate? (5) What precautions will I take to protect the rights of the participants and to prevent the setting and the participants from being harmed? You need to describe the process you will follow to obtain informed consent and the actions you will take to decrease study risks. The sensitive nature of some qualitative studies increases the risk for participants, which makes ethical concerns and decisions a major focus of the proposal ( Munhall, 2012 ; Patton, 2002 ). The primary data collection techniques used in qualitative research are observation and in-depth interviewing. Observations can range from highly detailed, structured notations of behaviors to ambiguous descriptions of behaviors or events. The interview can range from structured, closed-ended questions to unstructured, open-ended questions ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Munhall, 2012 ). You need to address the following questions when describing the proposed data collection process: (1) What data will be collected? For example, will the data be field notes from memory, audio recordings of interviews, transcripts of conversations, DVDs of events, or examination of existing documents? (2) What techniques or procedures will the research team use to collect the data? For example, if interviews are to be conducted, will a list of the proposed questions be included in the appendix? (3) Who will collect data and provide any training required for the data collectors? (4) Where will sources of data be located? In historical research, data are collected through an exhaustive review of published and unpublished literature. (5) How will the data be recorded and stored? The methods section also needs to address how you will document the research process. For example, you might keep a research journal or diary during the course of the study. These notes can document the day-to-day activities, methodological events, decision-making procedures, and personal notes about the informants. This information becomes part of the audit trail that you can provide to ensure the quality of the study ( Miles & Huberman, 1994 ; Munhall, 2012 ; Patton, 2002 ). The methods section of the proposal also includes the analysis techniques and the steps for conducting these techniques. In qualitative research, data collection and analysis often occur simultaneously. The data are usually in the form of notes, digital files, audio recordings, DVDs, and other material obtained from observation, interviews, and completing questionnaires. Through qualitative analysis techniques, these data are organized to promote understanding and determine meaning (see Chapter 12 ) ( Patton, 2002 ). Researchers also need to identify software programs they plan to use for data analysis. Current Knowledge Base, Limitations, and Plans for Communication of the Study This section of the proposal summarizes and documents all relevant literature that was reviewed for the study. Similar to quantitative research, qualitative studies require a literature review to provide a basis for the study purpose and to clarify how this study will expand nursing knowledge ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Munhall, 2012 ). This initial literature review is often conducted to establish the significance of the study and to develop research questions to guide the study. In phenomenological and grounded theory research, an additional literature review is usually conducted toward the end of the research project. The findings from a phenomenological study are compared and combined with findings from the literature to contribute to the current knowledge of the phenomenon. In grounded theory research, the literature is used to explain, support, and extend the theory generated in the study ( Glaser & Strauss, 1965 ). In all types of qualitative studies, the findings obtained are examined in light of the existing literature (see Chapter 4 ). You need to describe how the literature reviewed has influenced your proposed research methods. Biases and previous experience with the research problem need to be addressed, as does their potential impact on the proposed study. Often, anticipated findings, hypotheses, and hunches are identified before the study is conducted, followed by a discussion of the procedures that might be used to remain open to new information. You will also need to address the limitations of your proposed study in the context of limitations of similar studies. Conclude your proposal by describing how you plan to communicate your findings to various audiences through presentations and publications. Often, a realistic budget and timetable are provided in the appendix. A qualitative study budget is similar to a quantitative study budget and includes costs for data collection tools, software, and recording devices; consultants for data analysis; travel related to data collection and analysis; transcription of recordings; copying related to data collection and analysis; and developing, presenting, and publishing the final report. However, one of the greatest expenditures in qualitative research is the researcher’s time. Develop a timetable to project how long the study will take; often a period of 2 years or more is designated for data collection and analysis ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Munhall, 2012 ; Patton, 2002 ). You can use your budget and timetable to make decisions regarding the need for funding. Excellent websites have been developed to assist novice researchers in identifying an idea for qualitative study and developing a qualitative research proposal and reports (see www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/qualres.html ). The Office of Behavior and Social Sciences Research within the National Institutes of Health has a website to assist researchers in developing qualitative and quantitative research proposals for funding ( http://grants.nih.gov/grants/writing_application.htm ). You can use these websites and other publications to promote the quality of your qualitative research proposal. The quality of a proposal is based on the potential scientific contribution of the research to nursing knowledge; the research philosophy guiding the study; the research methods; and the knowledge, skills, and resources available to the investigators ( Marshall & Rossman, 2011 ; Munhall, 2012 ; Patton, 2002 ).

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150 Qualitative and Quantitative Nursing Research Topics for Students

Do not be lazy to spend some time researching and brainstorming. You can either lookup for the popular nursing research topics on social media networks or news or ask a professional writer online to take care of your assignment. What you should not do for sure is refuse to complete any of your course projects. You need every single task to be done if you wish to earn the highest score by the end of a semester.

In this article, we will share 150 excellent nursing research topics with you. Choose one of them or come up with your own idea based on our tips, and you’ll succeed for sure!

Table of Contents

Selecting the Top Ideas for Your Essays in Healthcare & Medicine

Would you like to learn how to write a research paper topic for nursing students? We will share some tips before offering lists of ideas.

Start with the preliminary research. You can get inspired on various websites offering ideas for students as well as academic help. Gather with your classmates and brainstorm by putting down different themes that you can cover. You should take your interests into consideration, but still, remember that ideas must relate to your lessons recently covered in class. You have to highlight keywords and main phrases to use in your text.

Before deciding on one of the numerous nursing school research topics, you should consult your tutor. Make sure that he or she approves the idea. Start writing only after that.

50 Popular Nursing Research Topics

Are you here to find the most popular research topics? They change with each new year as the innovations and technologies move on. We have collected the top discussed themes in healthcare for you.

Problems Encountered by the Spouses of the Patients with Dyslexia
Ethics in Geriatrics
Checklist for the Delivery Room Behavior
Parkinson Disease: Causes and Development
Exercises Used to Improve Mental Health
Effective Tips for Antenatal Treatment
Syndrome of the Restless Legs: How to Treat It
Behavior Assessment in Pediatric Primary Care
Why Can Mother’s Health Be under the Threat During the Child Birth?
Recommendations for Creating Strong Nursing Communities
Alzheimer’s Disease and Proper Treatment
Pre-Term Labor Threats
Music Therapy and Lactation
Influence of Ageism on Mental Health
Newborn Resuscitation Practices
Effective Therapy for Bladder Cancer
Approaches to Improving Emotional Health of Nurses
Skin-to-skin Contact by mothers and Its Consequences
Does a Nurse Have a Right to Prescribe Drugs?
Research on Atrial Fibrillation
Pros & Cons of Water Birth
Prevention Measures for Those Who Have to Contact Infectious Diseases
Stroke Disease and Ways to Cure It
The Role of Governmental Policies on the Hiring of Healthcare Professionals
Demands for the Critical Care
Joint Issue Research in Elderly Population
Why Should Nurses and Healthcare Workers Cooperate?
The Role of Good Leadership Skills in Nursing Profession
How to Minimize the Threat of Cardiovascular Problems
What Should a Nurse Do When an Elderly Refuses to Eat?
Main Reasons for the Depression to Occur
Methods Used to Detect an Abused Elderly Patient
Treatment and Prevention of Acne and Other Skin Problems
Consequences of the So-Called “Cold Therapy”
End-of-Life Care Interventions That Work
Risk factors for Osteoporosis in Female Population
Alcohol Addiction and How to Get Rid of It
Emerging Ethical Problems in Pain Management
Psychiatric Patient Ethics
How to Teach Female Population about Menopause Management
Reasons for Aged Patients to Use Alcohol in Nursing Homes
Family Engagement in Primary Healthcare
Do the Race and Gender of a Patient Play a Role in Pain Management?
PTSD in the Veterans of the United States Army
How to Prepare a Nurse for Primary Healthcare
The Correlation between Teen Aggression and Video Games
Outcomes of Abdominal Massage in Critically Sick Population
Developing an Effective Weight Loss Program: Case Study
Comparing and Contrasting Public Health Nursing Models in Various Regions
Mirror Therapy for Stroke Patients Who Are Partially Paralyzed

50 Interesting Nursing Research Topics

Do you wish to impress the target audience? Are you looking for the most interesting nursing research topics? It is important to consider time and recently covered themes. People tend to consider a topic an interesting one only if it is relevant. We have prepared the list of curious ideas for your project.

Reasons for Hypertensive Diseases
Self-Care Management and Sickle Cell Grown-Up Patients
Schizophrenia Symptoms, Treatment, and Diagnostics
Acute Coronary Syndrome Care
Getting Ready with Caesarean Section
What Are Some of the Cold and Cough Medicines?
Why Do Patients Suffer from Anxiety Disorders?
Use of the Forbidden Substances in Medicine
How to Make Wise and Safe Medical Decisions
CV Imaging Procedure
Complementary vs. Alternative Therapy
Can Some Types of Grains Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases?
Restrictions of Medical Contracts
How to Cope with High Levels of Stress
Legal Threats with Non-English Patients
The Basics of Palliative Care
Clinical Cardiology Innovations
How to Reduce Body Temperature in Household Conditions
What Causes Type II Diabetes?
Ways to Control Blood Pressure at Home
Dental/Oral Health in the US
Is There a Gender Bias in Nursing Profession?
Gyno Education for the Young Girls
Bipolar Disorder and Its Main Symptoms
Methods Used to Recover after Physical Traumas
The Principles of Sports Medicine
The Gap between Female and Male Healthcare Professionals
Increasing the Efficiency of Asthma Management in Educational Establishments
Different Roles of Clinical Nurses
Case Study: Successful Treatment of Migraine
In-depth Analysis of the Ovarian Disorder
Distant Intensive Treatment Until Questions
Proper Treatment of Sleep Disorders
How to Overcome Stressful Situations during Night Shifts
Effective Methods to Prevent Breast Cancer
Future of Healthcare & Medicine (Based on Modern Innovations)
Approaches to Treating Insomnia
Reproductive Endocrinology
Diversity in the Field of Medicine
Issues Associated with Menopause
Causes and Effects of the Vaginal Atrophy
Is Child’s Health Insurance a Right or a Privilege?
Best Practices for Nursing Practitioners
What Does the Phenomenon of Phantom Pains Stand for?
Ethical Aspects of Infertility
Protocol for Headache Treatment
Moral Aspects of Euthanasia
Treatment of Homeless People
Why Should Healthcare System Be Made Free Everywhere in the World?
Pain Restrictions Evaluation

50 Good Nursing Research Topics

Here is one more list of the nursing topics for research paper. We hope that at least one of these ideas will inspire you or give a clue.

Advantages of Pet Therapy in Kids with the Autism Disorder
Contemporary Approaches to Vaccinating Teenagers
eHealth: The Effectiveness of Telecare and eCare
Burn-Out in the Nursing Profession: Effective Ways to Handle Stress
Healing of Bone Injuries
Providing Spiritual Care: Does It Make Sense?
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Opioid Usage
Symptoms in ER That Cannot Be Explained by Medicine
Contemporary Neonatal Practices
Disorders with the Sexual Heath of an Average Woman
Typical Causes of Headache
Top Measures Used to Prevent Pregnancy
Strategies Used by Government to Finance Healthcare System
The Possible Consequences of Abortion for Women
Evaluation of Childbirth Efficacy
Quality Evaluation Techniques in Healthcare & Medicine
Maternal Practices in Urban Areas
Childcare Services Integration in Primary Medicine
Rules for Pregnant Women Who Suffer from Obesity
Mental Causes of Anorexia Nervosa
Self-Instruction Kits
Post-Natal Period Recommendations
Midwifery Continuous Treatment & Care
Case Study: Analyzing Positive Birth Experience
Issues Related to the Gestational Weight Gain
The Importance of Healthy Nutrition and Hydration
What Are the Obligations of Every Nurse in Any Situation?
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of ADHD
Management of Disease and Prevention Methods
The Importance of Kid and Teen Vaccination
Termination of Pregnancy: Risks for Female Health
Obligations of Every Pharmacist
How to Prevent Child Obesity
How to Stick to the Safe Sex Culture
What Are the Main Symptoms of Autism?
Ethics of the Healthcare Sales Promotion Campaigns
Pros and Cons of Telemedicine
Ethics in Pediatric Care
Therapies Used to Treat Speech Disorders
Medical Uniform Code Principles
Psychological Sides of Infant Treatment
Reasons for Seizures to Happen in Young Adolescents
Healthcare Home Service and Self-Medicine
How to Deal with Various Types of Eating Disorders
Treatment of Patients in Prison
Patient Security and Human Factors
Bad Habits and Illnesses Impacted by Social Media and Pop Culture
Apology Legislation and Regulations
Antibiotic Resistance in Small Kids
Nursing Marijuana Management & Control

You should also know that there are qualitative and quantitative nursing research topics. If you decide to base your study on numbers and figures, you should think about the second category. In quantitative research papers, writers must provide statistical data and interpret it to defend a thesis statement or find a solution to the existing problem.

Keep in mind that you can always count on the help of our professional essay writers. They will come up with the good nursing research topics and even compose the whole paper for you if you want.

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NURS 3750 - Nursing Honors Project: Research Proposals

Research Proposals
Literature Reviews
Nursing Research Design
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Nursing Research Proposals

What is a Research Proposal?

The goal of a research proposal is to present and justify the need to study a research problem and to present the practical ways in which the proposed study should be conducted. The design elements and procedures for conducting the research are governed by standards within the predominant discipline in which the problem resides, so guidelines for research proposals are more exacting and less formal than a general project proposal. Research proposals contain extensive literature reviews. They must provide persuasive evidence that a need exists for the proposed study. In addition to providing a rationale, a proposal describes detailed methodology for conducting the research consistent with requirements of the professional or academic field and a statement on anticipated outcomes and/or benefits derived from the study's completion.

Adapted from: Krathwohl, David R. How to Prepare a Dissertation Proposal: Suggestions for Students in Education and the Social and Behavioral Sciences . Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press, 2005.

Your professor may assign the task of writing a research proposal for the following reasons:

Develop your skills in thinking about and designing a comprehensive research study;
Learn how to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature to ensure a research problem has not already been answered [or you may determine the problem has been answered ineffectively] and, in so doing, become better at locating scholarship related to your topic;
Improve your general research and writing skills;
Practice identifying the logical steps that must be taken to accomplish one's research goals;
Critically review, examine, and consider the use of different methods for gathering and analyzing data related to the research problem; and,
Nurture a sense of inquisitiveness within yourself and to help see yourself as an active participant in the process of doing scholarly research.

A proposal should contain all the key elements involved in designing a completed research study, with sufficient information that allows readers to assess the validity and usefulness of your proposed study. The only elements missing from a research proposal are the findings of the study and your analysis of those results. Finally, an effective proposal is judged on the quality of your writing and, therefore, it is important that your writing is coherent, clear, and compelling.

Regardless of the research problem you are investigating and the methodology you choose, all research proposals must address the following questions:

What do you plan to accomplish? Be clear and succinct in defining the research problem and what it is you are proposing to research.
Why do you want to do it? In addition to detailing your research design, you also must conduct a thorough review of the literature and provide convincing evidence that it is a topic worthy of study. Be sure to answer the "So What?" question.
How are you going to do it? Be sure that what you propose is doable. If you're having trouble formulating a research problem to propose investigating, go here .

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failure to be concise; being "all over the map" without a clear sense of purpose.
Failure to cite landmark works in your literature review.
Failure to delimit the contextual boundaries of your research [e.g., time, place, people, etc.].
Failure to develop a coherent and persuasive argument for the proposed research.
Failure to stay focused on the research problem; going off on unrelated tangents.
Sloppy or imprecise writing, or poor grammar.
Too much detail on minor issues, but not enough detail on major issues.

Adapted from: Procter, Margaret. The Academic Proposal . The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Sanford, Keith. Information for Students: Writing a Research Proposal . Baylor University; Wong, Paul T. P. How to Write a Research Proposal . International Network on Personal Meaning. Trinity Western University; Writing Academic Proposals: Conferences, Articles, and Books . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing a Research Proposal . University Library. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Adapted text found on: https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/researchproposal

Carrie Forbes, MLS

Next: Literature Reviews >>
Last Updated: Jan 12, 2024 10:05 AM
URL: https://libguides.ecu.edu/NURS3750

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Nursing Research Proposal Topics
List of Nursing research proposal topics, DNP Research proposal topics, Current Nursing research proposal topics, Nursing research proposal writing tips, Nursing Research Proposal Examples ... To create a strong nursing research proposal, there are several key considerations that nursing students must take into account, which include; Defining ...
Best Nursing Research Topics for Students in 2024
The Best Research Topics for Nursing Students. You have endless subject choices for nursing research papers. This non-exhaustive list just scratches the surface of some of the best nursing research topics. 1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics. Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties.
Nursing Research Proposal Free Example [Tips and Sample PDF]
A nursing research proposal is a document that outlines the planned research project in the field of nursing. It provides details about the research question, study design, methodology, sample size determination, and ethical considerations.
Sample Research Proposal: Education Topics For Nursing Students
Example: "This research proposal aims to address a crucial gap in our understanding of how to best develop critical thinking skills in nursing students. By comparing simulation-based learning with traditional classroom methods, we seek to provide empirical evidence that could significantly influence the future of nursing education.
Research/Clinical/Student Project Proposal Guidelines
Download the 2016 application. All materials must be formatted using APA format. I. Quantitative Research Proposal 1. Title and Abstract A 200-word abstract are to accompany the proposal. The abstract should include the study aim, significance, the population and sample description and a statement of the design and analysis.
How to Write a Nursing Research Paper Proposal
Please note that your nursing research proposal should not be more than 2000 words. This word count is enough for you to sell your ideas without boring them with irrelevant information. Some of the weaknesses seen in most nursing research paper proposals are: Unfocused research proposal titles that lead to rejections from the school.
PDF THE RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Learn how to write a research proposal for nursing or midwifery studies. This guide covers the key elements, structure and tips for a successful proposal, with examples and references.
How to write a nursing research proposal
A nursing research proposal is a document that outlines a plan for a study or research project in the field of nursing. It outlines the purpose, methodology, and expected outcomes of the study. ... The Impact of online education on nursing students' learning outcomes; The relationship between nursing burnout and medical errors;
Nursing Research Proposal Template: A Comprehensive Guide + Free
My advice on: Clearly state the goal of your study and its potential impact on nursing practice.Highlight the contribution your research will make to the field of nursing. Literature Review: Example: Previous research has shown that music therapy can have a positive impact on pain management in adult patients undergoing various medical procedures. . Studies by Bradt et al. (2016) and Good et ...
A guide to writing grant proposals for nursing research
A guide to writing grant proposals for nursing research. A guide to writing grant proposals for nursing research Res Nurs Health. 2021 Aug;44(4):596-597. doi: 10.1002/nur.22137. Epub 2021 May 11. Authors Hyochol Ahn 1 , Elizabeth Reifsnider 2 Affiliations 1 Cizik ...
Writing Research Proposals
The content of a proposal varies with the reviewers, the guidelines developed for the review, and the type of study (quantitative or qualitative) proposed. This section addresses the content of (1) a student proposal for both quantitative and qualitative studies, (2) condensed research proposals, and (3) preproposals.
150 Excellent, Fresh Nursing Research Topics for Healthcare Students
Find 150 qualitative and quantitative nursing research topics for your healthcare and medicine projects. Learn how to choose, write and format your research paper with tips and examples.
NURS 3750
Information for Students: Writing a Research Proposal. Baylor University; Wong, Paul T. P. How to Write a Research Proposal. International Network on Personal Meaning. Trinity Western University; Writing Academic Proposals: Conferences, Articles, and Books. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing a Research Proposal. University ...
PDF Bachelor in Science (Nursing) (BSc (Cur)) Research Proposal
This document is a research proposal for a qualitative study that aims to explore nurses' perceptions and experiences of providing psychological care to burns patients during the recovery phase. It includes the research question, aims, objectives, methodology, design, sample, data analysis, ethical considerations and proposed outcome.
PDF Structural Outline of a Research Proposal
section within the proposal, a separate application for review of protection of human subjects is prepared by the investigator {University of Washington Form #13-11.}. This application is to be submitted to the student's supervisory committee for review and action with the completed research proposal. Subsequent to approval of the proposal and
PDF Writing a Research Proposal and A Research Protocol in Clinical Nursing
A presentation by a nursing lecturer on how to write a research proposal and a research protocol for clinical nursing studies. It covers the concepts, functions, purposes, stages, components and format of the documents, with examples and tips.
How to Write a Research Proposal
Research proposal examples. Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We've included a few for you below. Example research proposal #1: "A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management" Example research proposal #2: "Medical Students as Mediators of ...
7+ SAMPLE Nursing Research Proposal in PDF
Learn what a nursing research proposal is, why it is important, and how to write one. Find out the elements of a quality proposal, the types of research, and the sources of topics and ideas.
PDF RESEARCH PROPOSAL TEMPLATE
A title which clearly and succinctly explains what the research is about . e.g. "Incident hip fracture and socio-economic status in a regional population of Australian women aged 65 years and over." 2. PURPOSE OF STUDY* Describe the purpose, specific aims, or objectives. State the hypothesis to be tested or the research questions that