Practice certainly has changed. Now we have family-oriented birthing centers where siblings and other family members are invited into the birth rooms. Yes, we nurses have made great strides in changing practice based on research findings. Nurse researchers can find solutions to some of the problems that arise in clinical practice, as outlined in this issue s cover story. This is a logical way to involve staff nurses in research within the practice setting.
Important questions require consideration in research with patients, however.
Several years ago, when I was a faculty member at a major university teaching hospital, research protocols were not adequately spelled out, so I refused to allow the students to participate in the administration of the research medication. It did not take long for a committee to establish guidelines and define a responsible protocol. That nurse may have lost her position on the research team, but she certainly was a strong patient advocate. Every patient has the right to refuse participation in any research study without pressure. Sharing with the public any findings achieved through research and informing them that it has allowed for positive changes in practice are two ways to gain support for research.