Qualitative Research on Research Anxiety among Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialists

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the genuine experiences of research anxiety among geriatric clinical nurse specialists (GCNSs), establishing a foundation for improving their research capabilities and developing targeted training and management strategies. Methods: A total of 12 GCNSs from various regions and hospitals of different tiers were selected for semi-structured interviews. Content analysis was used to systematically organize and analyze the interview data to identify the key themes. Results: Research anxiety among GCNSs was primarily manifested in four areas: inadequate research knowledge and skills, challenges with time and energy allocation, lack of support from research teams, and uncertainty about future career planning. Conclusion: The findings indicate that challenges in time and energy allocation, insufficient research proficiency, lack of research support, and uncertainty in career development planning are the primary contributors to research anxiety among GCNSs. Addressing these issues requires hospitals and nursing administrators to strengthen research capacity, cultivate a supportive research environment, and prioritize the professional development of specialist nurses. These initiatives aim to reduce research anxiety, increase research motivation and initiative, establish a comprehensive research management framework, advance geriatric nursing research, and elevate nurses' research capabilities.