‘Tiny little seeds can change the nursing landscape dramatically’

As part of our focus on research at the trust, today Vascular Nurse Consultant Leanne Atkin talks about what research means to her

My own personal journey with research started when I began delivering specialist lectures to a local University where I was exposed to the value of nursing research and leading nurse researchers. I have a naturally questioning mind around what we do in clinical practice, how we can measure the value of nursing and where improvements can be made.

My first research role was collecting data for national studies, which is where many nurses start their research careers. I just wanted to get involved at any level. Over time, this has progressed to being Principle Investigator for national and international studies to now designing my own research, developing the research protocol, being chief investigator for research that is conducted within our Trust and other NHS Trusts, which is hugely satisfying.

It has to be acknowledged that none of this would be possible without the amazing support from the research team, both in terms of assisting with data collection and providing oversight from a regularity and governance point of view. Within MY, we have other nurses, midwives and AHP who are also excellent clinical researchers, but we aren’t yet that great at always showcasing what we do and what we achieve. Hopefully the stories we are sharing this week is part of changing that.

My personal area of expertise is research around vascular disease and wound care, which is a big part of nursing. I feel that as nurses, if we don’t scope out these research questions, who else will? We need nurses to be asking these questions, ensuring the value of nursing is understood so the profession of nursing continues to evolve.

It’s not all plain sailing. Balancing research and clinical work is a challenge, not least because of the blurred boundaries – where does one end and the other begin? The truth is, there is no separation between the two as each feeds into the other, with mutual benefits to both.

What really is essential is time for planning and collaboration with colleagues. Having a chat with other researchers to see if an idea has got legs – and accepting that not everything has! Taking time to write down my thoughts and scope out protocols around resources, time, and funding – it’s all part of the process.

Research is all about looking at the bigger picture, and asking: ‘why do we do what we do? And can we improve it?’ We need research to answer these questions, then the results of the research to feed into clinical pathway.

Its worth noting that none of this is quick. It takes years from formulating a research question to seeing the results come to life in a change in a standardised practice in your trust or even nationally. But it is worth it. Tiny little seeds can change the landscape dramatically.

I also get a huge sense of pride from knowing that the research we are taking part in is helping to move the nursing profession forward, and by extension, improving patient experience and outcomes. Its also just really enjoyable!

Its so important that other nurses see the value of research, even if they are not directly involved themselves. What they are doing will, eventually, have an impact on both them and the patients they are caring for. Its also important to note that research is not just for senior nurses – its for everyone. A lot of newly qualified nurses will have had education in research methodologies as part of their undergraduate training – we need to harness that knowledge and skills and keep the importance and enthusiasm for research burning bright.

Overall, it’s been a positive experience, the personal and professional growth has been amazing from a student nurse within Pontefract Health Authority to now Clinical Academic! There will always be challenges, but it is still worth it despite those. It is an exciting time for research within MY as the Trust board understands the value of research and they have a huge appetite to ensure enthusiastic researchers from all backgrounds are enabled, supported and encourage.