Critical Care Nursing Research Activities in Norwegian Intensive Care Units − A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Research is a cornerstone of evidence-based practice and critical for advancing patient care and safety. While critical care nurses play a vital role in research, barriers such as limited resources and negative attitudes often hinder their participation. In Norway, there is limited insight into the research activities conducted by critical care nurses in intensive care units. Aim: This study aimed to identify critical care nursing research activities and explore factors that facilitate or inhibit these activities in Norwegian intensive care units. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted using a self-developed questionnaire, based on the authors’ clinical experiences and research, which was distributed to 56 Norwegian intensive care units. Data were collected electronically and analysed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and inspired by thematic analysis for qualitative data. Results: A total of 26 intensive care units participated (46% response rate). Critical care nursing research activities varied, with most units reporting master’s projects and quality improvement initiatives, while fewer engaged in PhD-level research. Nearly half of the units lacked dedicated research personnel and over half had no allocated research funding. Key barriers included insufficient resources, lack of time and negative attitudes towards research. Facilitators included leadership support, allocated research time and economic resources. Practical value in research was identified as a motivator for engagement. Conclusions: Critical care nursing research activities in Norwegian intensive care units are varied but limited, with barriers such as resource constraints and negative attitudes. Facilitators like leadership support and targeted funding are essential for fostering research. Promoting master’s-level education and aligning research with clinical needs may enhance participation. Facilitating critical care nursing research is critical for advancing evidence-based practice and improving the care quality in intensive care units.