Nursing research is a critical component of the nursing profession as it helps improve patient care and further nursing knowledge. Writing a nursing research paper allows nursing students and nurses to explore a topic of interest and evaluate current evidence and practices related to that topic. A well-structured outline is essential for organizing your ideas and research findings before writing the paper. Here is an example of a nursing research paper outline that contains the key elements:
I. Introduction
Begin with an engaging opening paragraph that introduces the research topic. State the specific nursing problem or question being explored.
Include a background paragraph that provides context on the importance and relevance of the research topic to nursing practice and patient outcomes. Discuss any gaps in current knowledge, practices or controversies related to the topic.
Conclude the introduction with a clear statement of the research purpose and specific research questions or hypotheses being addressed.
II. Literature Review
Create multiple level 2 headings to organize the literature review by theme. For example:
Current Practices
Summarize 3-5 recent studies that describe current practices related to the topic.
Controversies
Discuss conflicting evidence or perspectives found in the literature related to controversies around the topic.
Knowledge Gaps
Identify any gaps found in the literature related to insufficient research on aspects of the topic.
Critically analyze and synthesize the literature reviewed rather than just describing individual studies.
Conclude the literature review by restating how the literature supports the need for the proposed study.
III. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
Identify and briefly describe the theoretical/conceptual framework that will guide the study. Explain how it relates to and will help address the research topic/questions.
Include a visual model or diagram of key concepts if applicable.
IV. Methodology
Design
State the research design (e.g. descriptive, correlational, quasi-experimental).
Setting and Sample
Describe the setting, target population, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and sampling plan. State the desired sample size and rationale.
Measurement
List and provide details of the variables and instruments/tools that will be used to measure each variable. Discuss instrument reliability and validity if applicable.
Procedure
Outline the steps and timeline of the research procedure in a logical sequence, including any interventions. Address important considerations like informed consent and protecting human subjects.
Data Analysis
Describe the specific statistical tests or qualitative data analysis approaches that will be used to analyze the data and test hypotheses/answer research questions.
V. Discussion
Consideration of ethical issues
Limitations
Implications for nursing practice, education, policy etc. based on potential findings
Recommendations for future research
VI. Conclusion
Restate key findings of literature review that support need for the study
Reinforce importance and relevance of the research topic and purpose of the study
Conclude by emphasizing how the study will address current gaps and benefit nursing
VII. References
Include full APA citations for all sources used in the outline
An organized outline serves as the foundation and roadmap for developing a strong nursing research paper. This sample outline covers the major elements necessary and can be adapted based on the specific research topic, design and requirements. It provides nursing students and scholars a solid example of an outline structure to guide their own research paper development.