A/Prof. Ginger Chu1, A/Prof Rachael Walker2, Dr Edward Zimbudzi3, A/Prof Ronald Castelino4
1University Of Newcastle, , Australia, 2University of Auckland, , New Zealand, 3Monash University , , Australia, 4University of Sydney, , Australia
Biography:
Ginger is an Associate Professor at the University of Newcastle. She previously worked at John Hunter Hospital as a Nephrology Clinical Nurse Consultant for 10 years and is passionate about improving patient outcomes through quality improvement and research.
Background: Nephrology nurses and allied health professionals are well positioned to identify clinically meaningful research and quality improvement opportunities to enhance outcomes for people with kidney disease. Despite this, research activity within these groups in Australia and New Zealand remains limited.
Abstract:
Aim: To explore nephrology nurses’ and allied health professionals’ perspectives on the barriers and enablers to participating in research and quality improvement activities.
Methods: A mixed methods study was conducted using surveys and focus groups, guided by the Behaviour Change Wheel and the capability–opportunity–motivation (COM B) model to explore perceived barriers and enablers.
Results: Forty-seven surveys were completed, and 34 individuals participated in focus groups. Participants were predominantly female (93%), with a mean age of 45 years, from Australia (91%), primarily Victoria (59%), and were most commonly Registered Nurses (47%). Survey responses identified limited opportunities for research as the main barrier. Focus group themes indicated that limited knowledge of the research process and low perceived capability were key capability barriers. Opportunity related barriers included insufficient mentorship, limited leadership and organisational support, and lack of dedicated time. While some participants perceived that research is not valued in clinical practice, others recognised the importance of research for improving patient outcomes and supporting career progression, which served as key motivational enablers.
Conclusions: Targeted research training for nurses and allied health professionals, along with structured strategies to increase research and quality improvement opportunities—such as networking, collaborative models, and organisational partnerships—may enhance participation and leadership in nephrology research, benefiting both clinicians and patient care.