What is Research?

Research is a process of learning about the world through discovery and inquiry. It can involve creating new knowledge, using existing knowledge in new ways, or analyzing previous research. Research can also involve experimentation, observation, and various methods. Nursing research specifically seeks to answer questions or explore healthcare issues. Through the processes of description, exploration, explanation, and prediction of phenomena, nurse researchers work to improve patient outcomes while contributing to the discipline of nursing. (Henry Ford Hospital Nursing Research Toolkit, 2024)

Research can have many goals, including:

Discovering Facts

  • Research can involve investigating and searching exhaustively to discover facts.

Revising Theories

  • Research can involve using new facts to revise accepted theories or laws.

Applying Theories

  • Research can involve applying new or revised theories to practical applications.

Developing Knowledge

  • Research can involve developing or contributing to generalizable knowledge that can expand the knowledge base of a field of study.

Research can involve many steps, including:

  • Identifying a problem
  • Searching for existing information
  • Formulating a hypothesis
  • Designing a study
  • Recruiting participants
  • Collecting data
  • Analyzing data
  • Sharing results
Additional Resource Downloads

Research Module Library

What is research?

The word "research" comes from the Middle French word recherche, which means "to go about seeking". The earliest recorded use of the term was in 1577.

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Where do I start?

Not sure where to begin? The first step is determining whether your project is an evidence-based practice (EBP) initiative, research study, or quality improvement (QI) project.

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Quantitative Research Module

Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.

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White Papers

SUNA Suprapubic Catheter Task Force has developed a White Paper on Management of Patients after Suprapubic Catheter Insertion. This white paper provides recommendations based on expert opinion and the scarce evidence relative to suprapubic catheter care after the initial post-insertion change. Special thank you to the following task force members: Susanne A. Quallich, PhD, ANP-BC, NP-C, CUNP, FAUNA, FAANP; Todd Thompson, MSN, RN; Jodi Jameson, MLIS, AHIP; Katie Wall, MSN, FNP-C; Michelle J. Lajiness, DNP, FNP-BC, FAUNA; Gina Powley, MSN, ANP-BC, FAUNA; Anthony R. Lutz, MSN, NP-C, CUNP; and Jean Hemphill, PhD, MSN, FNP-BC.

Download the White Paper

SUNA collaborated with the American Urological Association on the development of three white papers on optimizing outcomes for patients before, during, and following urologic surgery:

Thank you to the following SUNA members who served as workgroup members or peer reviewers: Frances Foley, MHA, RN, CURN; Gwendolyn Hooper, PhD, APRN, CUNP; Michelle Lajiness, NP; Christopher Tucci, MS, RN, BC, CURN; Charlene Vollmer, BSN, RN-BC; and Glenda Wilkinson, BS, RN, CURN, CRLS, MLSO.

Provider Resources

The American Urological Association (AUA) has developed a Quality Improvement Issue Brief on Indwelling Urinary Catheter Management of the Acute Patient.

View Brief

The Flexible Cystoscopy: Training & Assessment Guideline and Flexible Cystoscopy: Performance Criteria, Training & Assessment Logbook have become the universal training package in using a flexible cystoscope. Created by our British colleagues, the British Association of Urological Nurses (BAUN) and the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS), these free evidence-based guidelines are available for download on the BAUS website.

Go to these resources on BAUS website

The following resource was first published in the July/August 2022 issue of Urologic Nursing.

View Urodynamics: Practice Tips

CBUNA News

Featured
Message from the CBUNA Board

The CBUNA Board of Directors is excited to announce our first electronic newsletter! To those who have remained certified for many years, or even decades, like RN VirginiaLewis who is featured in this issue’s Certified Member Spotlight, we say congratulations andthank you. Thank you for making CBUNA part of your commitment to yourself, your profession and your urology patients.

Learn More

 

Featured
CBUNA Offers Group Certification Exam Discounts

Recognizing the significance of certification in the workplace, CBUNA has implemented a Group Certification Discount program tailored for those aiming to provide certification to their staff. Achieving CBUNA certification is a key stride toward fulfilling personal and professional goals.

Contact the National Office for more information.

 

Featured
CUNP Exam Reaccreditation

Certification Board for Urologic Nurses and Associates Receives Accreditation of its Certified Urologic Nurse Practitioner Exam From the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification.

Learn More

 

Featured
Medical Education and Training Campus (METC) Urology Technician Program

Medical Education and Training Campus (METC) at Joint Base San Antonio Fort Sam Houston, TX, has been granted reaccreditation for the Urology Technician Program from the Certification Board for Urologic Nurses and Associates.

Learn More

 

Featured
CBUNA has designated November 2 as Certified Urology Nurses & Associates Day
Badge

In conjunction with Urology Nurses & Associates Week, CBUNA has designated November 2 as Certified Urology Nurses & Associates Day! CBUNA honors your dedication and commitment to give the highest level of care to your patients each day. You are an inspiration to all healthcare workers. Thank you for all that you do!

You can share the CBUNA Certified Badge on social media or add the image to your email signatures. Certification is something to be proud of, and like you, we are proud of your certification and want to give you the opportunity to share your accomplishments.

Download Our Badge Here

 

President's Message

Sulley.png

As we navigate through the challenges and triumphs of our profession, I am honored to address you as the President of SUNA. Our commitment to advancing nursing excellence and promoting the well-being of both our patients and our fellow healthcare professionals remains unwavering.

This year, we aim to strengthen our bonds, foster collaboration, and empower each member to reach new heights in their professional journey. Our upcoming events, workshops, and educational programs are designed to equip you with the latest knowledge and skills, ensuring that you are well-prepared to meet the challenges of today's healthcare environment. I encourage you to actively engage with your colleagues, participate in our events, consider volunteering on a task force, and take advantage of the resources offered by SUNA.

In the face of ever-evolving healthcare landscapes, your dedication to the highest standards of patient care is truly commendable and thank you for what you do! Wishing you a successful and fulfilling year ahead.

Glenn Sulley, BS, RN, CURN, FAUNA
SUNA President

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