NR 439 Week 6 Assignment Reading Research Literature (RRL) Worksheet
Student Name
Chamberlain University
NR-439: RN Evidence-Based Practice
Prof. Name
Date
Reading Research Literature Worksheet
Purpose of the Study
The primary objective of this research was to explore whether a perceived sense of mattering—the feeling that one’s work and contributions are significant—affects nurses’ perceptions in several areas. These areas included workload perception, meaning derived from work, perceived social support, burnout levels, and professional engagement. In addition, the study incorporated two open-ended questions to gain richer qualitative insights.
The investigation was motivated by the growing concern over escalating burnout rates among nurses, which have been linked to emotional exhaustion, reduced job satisfaction, and increased turnover. The researchers aimed to determine if fostering a sense of mattering could serve as a protective factor, enabling nurses to better cope with professional stressors and maintain higher engagement levels in their roles.
Type of Research and Design
The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.
| Research Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Design | Cross-sectional survey |
| Data Type | Mixed methods (quantitative + qualitative) |
| Question Format | Likert-type point scale for most questions; two narrative response items |
| Approach Justification | Allows simultaneous exploration of numerical trends and narrative themes |
This combination enabled the researchers to not only measure statistically significant relationships but also capture the lived experiences and nuanced perspectives of nurses.
Sample
The sample consisted of nurses and nurse practitioners currently practicing in the United States, in both full-time and part-time capacities. Out of 362 participants who initially enrolled in the study, 324 fully completed the online survey and provided usable data.
Demographic and professional characteristics included:
| Characteristic | Predominant Findings |
|---|---|
| Gender | Majority female |
| Ethnicity | Predominantly White |
| Educational Level | Mostly Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
| Average Age | 39 years |
| Mean RN Experience | 12 years |
| Practice Setting | Varied (across multiple geographical regions) |
This diversity in geographical representation and healthcare settings added depth to the findings by capturing experiences across different work environments.
Data Collection
Data were collected using the Eisenberger Social Support Scale, a validated instrument consisting of 15 items rated on a 5-point scale (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree). This tool assessed the degree to which nurses felt supported by their organization, supervisors, colleagues, and other team members.
The survey also included:
- Standardized burnout and engagement measures
- Two open-ended narrative questions to capture qualitative insights
This mixed approach provided a robust framework for understanding both measurable trends and individual experiences.
Data Analysis
Quantitative data from the scaled items were analyzed using Pearson’s r correlation to determine relationships between variables. Descriptive statistics, including means, standard deviations, and percentages, were employed to summarize demographic and outcome data.
Qualitative responses from the open-ended questions underwent content analysis, allowing the researchers to identify recurring themes and patterns in nurses’ experiences related to mattering and burnout.
Limitations
One key limitation was the potential for survey response bias and incomplete participation. Although 362 nurses enrolled, only 324 completed the survey in its entirety, reducing the sample size and potentially affecting representativeness. Additionally, the cross-sectional nature of the study limits the ability to draw causal conclusions between mattering and burnout.
Findings and Discussion
The results supported the hypothesis that a stronger sense of professional mattering correlates with lower burnout levels among nurses. Specifically, the study revealed:
NR 439 Week 6 Assignment Reading Research Literature (RRL) Worksheet
| Key Finding | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Mattering vs. Burnout | Negative correlation; higher mattering linked to lower burnout |
| Job Satisfaction vs. Peer vs. Manager Support | Peer relationships rated more critical to satisfaction than manager ties |
| Dissatisfaction and Burnout | Higher dissatisfaction associated with increased burnout scores |
One particularly noteworthy observation was that peer relationships appeared to have a more substantial influence on job satisfaction than managerial relationships. While some may prioritize management support, the data suggest that strong peer connections can play an even more crucial role in buffering workplace stress.
Reading Research Literature
The nursing profession evolves continuously, driven by new evidence, practices, and technological advancements. Developing the ability to read, interpret, and apply scholarly research is therefore essential for evidence-based practice.
Initially, navigating scholarly articles—especially statistical tables and data visualizations—may seem challenging. However, through structured academic exposure, nurses can learn to appreciate these elements for the insights they provide. As this study demonstrates, engaging deeply with research fosters a richer understanding of the profession’s challenges and potential solutions, ultimately supporting better patient care outcomes.
References
Haizlip, J., McCluney, C., Hernandez, M., Quatrara, B., & Brashers, V. (2020). Mattering: How organizations, patients, and peers can affect nurse burnout and engagement. JONA: The Journal of Nursing Administration, 50(5), 267–273. https://doi.org/10.1097/NNA.0000000000000882