Strategies to enhance nurses' participation in healthcare research in the context of HIV and AIDS transmission in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Reducing the disease-related hardships in Nigeria's HIV and AIDS transmission context needs research-based multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary strategies that scientifically inform research findings for relevant research advocacy. As health professionals, nurses play a crucial role in health-sector solutions to lower the burden of diseases such as HIV. However, the deep awareness of HIV and AIDS transmission did not convert into research generation through independent research output in this environment. Purpose: This study aimed at developing strategies that enhance nurses' participation in healthcare research in Nigeria's HIV and AIDS transmission context. Method: This study adopted a qualitative research approach in conjunction with exploratory and descriptive research designs as this enabled the provision of further details and information in aspects of the research field where knowledge is limited. The study population consisted of about 200 registered nurses providing nursing care at a general hospital in Ogun State, Nigeria, a 160-bed tertiary hospital providing various medical and nursing care services. Sample: The non-probability purposive sampling technique was utilised for the selection of 31 registered nurse participants. In-depth interviews were held with 10 of these nurses, while 21were involved in three focus group discussions as part of the study’s overall data collection regime. The modified six-phase data analysis method was utilised to correlate and integrate the information from the individual in-depth interviews and focus group discussions into coherent themes addressing the study’s investigated problem. Result: The study found that nurses in Nigeria were largely aware of local and worldwide HIV trends, the mechanisms for mobilising local initiatives, and the critical role of applying research findings in effectively reducing HIV and AIDS. However, they were usually unconcerned with their role in HIV and AIDS healthcare research development. While the nurses were primarily engaged in data gathering and validation, their personal understanding did not convert into knowledge disseminated via autonomous research productivity and publications in this area. Instead, they preferred to go with the flow of events and were hesitant to challenge the status quo. Recommendation: All nurses should be required to have a university education, and policies that promote a culture of nursing research productivity should be promoted.