The nursing process involves the function of nurses in delivering patient care that is based on various nursing models and philosophies. It is a process that is widely viewed as the key towards a more advanced theoretically based nursing practice (Habermann and Uys, 2006). The research process on the other hand involves the systematically processed steps that are needed to be undertaken in order to carry out a nursing research. Both the nursing and research processes are complementary to each other which aim to improve quality patient outcomes in the field of the nursing practice and while they share some similarities they also have distinct functions and goals.
The relationship of similarities between the two processes on the other hand lies in the design of undertaking their implementation where the research process becomes the basis of knowledge on the best nursing process practices to deliver to patients. Both processes are also systematically implemented. The nursing process for instance involves the systematic assessment, diagnosis, planning/outcome, implementation and evaluation steps to improve the quality of patient care delivered to patients. Likewise, the research process also involves various systematic steps such as identifying problems, establishing the research problem, literature review, study design, theoretical or conceptual framework, analysis, result and further research (Priest, et al 2006).
With the nursing process supported by an in depth research process, the delivery of patient care is improved because the research is often based on various literatures that help to improve the implementation of the nursing process that help address patient needs and to deliver the most appropriate care for patient. Consequently, the research process is only made significant when it is adapted and implemented through the nursing process practice.
References:
Gerish, K. and Lacey, LA. (2010). The Research Process in Nursing. UK: Blackwell Publishing.
Habermann, M. and Uys, L.R. (2006 ). The Nursing Process: A Global Concept. China: Elsevier.
Priest, H. et al (2006) Understanding the research process in nursing. Nursing Standard. 21:39-42.
