Realist research in nursing: an introduction to seeing beyond 'what works'.

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Authors

Howe, Jo
Harrison, Mary
Fitzgerald, Ita
Clibbens, Nicola

Issue Date

2025-06-19

Type

Journal Article

Language

en

Keywords

Evidence-Based Nursing , Nursing Methodology Research , Nursing Research , Realist Research

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Abstract

This article is the first in a series exploring realist research, a methodological approach well suited to the complexity of nursing practice. Unlike traditional approaches such as randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, which focus on whether interventions work, realist research examines how and why interventions work when implemented in specific groups; reflecting the individualised care nurses provide. By introducing the key concepts of realist research, this article highlights its relevance to nursing and lays the groundwork for using realist research to drive meaningful improvements in healthcare.

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Citation

Howe, J., Harrison, M., Fitzgerald, I., & Clibbens, N. (2025). Realist research in nursing: an introduction to seeing beyond 'what works'. Evidence-based nursing, 28(3), 134–136. https://doi.org/10.1136/ebnurs-2025-104288

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Journal

Evidence-based nursing

Volume

28

Issue

3

PubMed ID

ISSN

1468-9618

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