Barriers to Research Utilization by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists

At present, no documentation pertaining to the factors influencing utilization of research into clinical practice by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) exists. An investigation was undertaken to determine perceptions of CRNAs regarding factors within the context of the work setting, which may serve to influence their utilization of research in their clinical practice. A descriptive quantitative study provided information based upon data acquired from a 32-item questionnaire (Barriers to Research Utilization Scale, BRUS) electronically distributed to a random sample of 2500 CRNAs residing within the United States. From the CRNAs responding to the questionnaire, the five greatest barriers to research utilization were: 1. Research is not generalizable to own setting. 2. Research is not reported clearly or readably. 3. The CRNA does not see the value of research for practice 4. Conclusions drawn from the research are unjustified. 5. The amount of research is overwhelming. Recommendations for future research include distribution of the questionnaire to the stakeholder groups comprised of (a) A larger national sample of CRNAs, (b) CRNAs from various geographic regions, and (c) CRNAs in either medically or non-medically- directed practice settings. The BRUS can be modified to conduct a Delphi study in university-based graduate programs in nurse anesthesia to broaden the understanding of the professional practice factors that influence research utilization by CRNAs. This information will be useful in contributing towards the design of academic and clinical curricula preparing entry-level nurse anesthetists for contextual realities in professional practice. The questionnaire may also be useful for investigating demographic factors (e.g., age, gender, academic and clinical preparation for entry-level practice, tenure in practice) that may influence the values and attitudes of practicing CRNAs toward translational research. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]