Clinical nurses' perceptions of research in Gauteng Province, South Africa : a qualitative study

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Nurses are expected to engage in research to inform evidence-based practice; however, research remains poorly integrated into routine clinical work for many. This study explored clinical nurses’ perceptions of research to inform the development of a research capacity-building program in Gauteng Province, South Africa. METHODS : A qualitative descriptive design was used. Data were collected through focus group discussions and individual interviews with 29 nurses from two public hospitals in Gauteng Province. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using conventional content analysis. RESULTS : Three themes emerged: [1] Supportive Research Environment - participants acknowledged hospital support through research permissions and opportunities to attend symposiums; [2] Research as an Ivory Tower - many viewed research as exclusive to academics, with some expressing fear or limited understanding of research processes; [3] Barriers to Research Engagement - participants cited factors such as staff shortages, lack of protected time for research, frequent ward rotations disrupting research interests, limited library access, and negativity from some managers and colleagues. One participant shared, “I wanted to do research in labor ward, but rotation moved me, so I lost the opportunity”. CONCLUSIONS : Although nurses recognized the value of research, structural and individual barriers limit their participation. Strengthening research training within nursing education, improving access to research resources, and fostering a supportive organizational culture are essential to enhancing research engagement and promoting evidence-based nursing practice in South Africa. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER : Not applicable.