Improving practice and informing policy development: The impact of gerontological nursing research.

TitleImproving practice and informing policy development: The impact of gerontological nursing research.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsBowers, B
JournalGeriatr Nurs
Volume41
Issue1
Pagination32-37
Date Published2020 Jan-Feb
ISSN1528-3984
KeywordsAged, Geriatric Nursing, Health Policy, Humans, Nursing Research, Pain Management, Patient-Centered Care, Quality of Health Care
Abstract

Nurses have always approached the clinical care challenges they encounter with a combination of critical observation and a profound concern for human suffering. Beginning in earnest in the early 1980s, nurse researchers have pursued the answers to questions about the wellbeing of older adults, particularly those suffering from serious, chronic conditions. This paper offers three exemplars of nursing research domains that illustrate the creativity and commitment of nurse researchers seeking to understand and improve pervasive clinical problems experienced by older adults and to demonstrate the profound influence these activities have had on the evolution of the science and the quality of care for older adults. The impact of this work is reflected in practice protocols, institutional policies, government oversight, and improved outcomes for patients.

DOI10.1016/j.gerinurse.2020.01.010
Alternate JournalGeriatr Nurs
PubMed ID32024595