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Nursing Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Psychological Distress, Resilience, and the Impact on Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors With Taxane-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy , Lauren Schwab

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Medication-Assisted Treatment Versus 12-Step Group Therapy: A Comparative Analysis of Adherence and Abstinence In Patients With Opioid Use Disorder , Derrick C. Glymph

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Quality of Life of Older Adults with Complicated Grief Receiving Accelerated Resolution Therapy: A Mixed Methods Study , Tina M. Mason

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

In Post-Extubated Patients What are the Preferred Methods of Communication During Their Experience of Endotracheal Intubation with Mechanical Ventilation , Lanette Dumas

The Effect of Hope on the Relationship between Personal and Disease Characteristics and Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer , Sharon B. McNeil

Predictors of Nonadherence to Radiation Therapy Schedules Among Head and Neck Cancer Patients , Jennifer Lynn Miller

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Perceived Discrimination and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Blacks: A Secondary Data Analysis of the Heart SCORE Study , Marilyn Aluoch

Exploration of Gratitude in Cardiovascular Health: Mediators, Medication Adherence and Psychometrics , Lakeshia A. Cousin

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Fatigue-related Symptom Clusters and their Relationship with Depression, and Functional Status in Older Adults Hospice Patients with Cancer. , Suzan Fouad Abduljawad

Genetic Moderation of Pain and Fatigue Symptoms Resulting from the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Breast Cancer Program , Carissa Bea Alinat

The Moderating Effect of Religion on Death Distress and Quality of Life between Christian Cancer patients in the United States with Muslim cancer patients in Saudi Arabia , Doaa Almostadi

Prevention of Post Intensive Care Syndrome-Family with Sensation Awareness Focused Training Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial Pilot Study , Paula L. Cairns

Assessing Abstinence in Infants Greater Than 28 Days Old , Genieveve J. Cline

The Relationship Between Sleep Quality and Motor Function in Hospitalized Older Adult Survivors of Critical Illness , Maya N. Elías

The Role of Migration-Related Stress in Depression Among Haitian Immigrants in Florida: A Mixed Method Sequential Explanatory Approach , Dany Amanda C. Fanfan

The Effect of Depression, Inflammation and Sleep Quality on Risk for Cardiovascular Disease , Catherine L. O'Neil

Adapting SafeMedicate (Medication Dosage Calculation Skills software) For Use In Brazil , Samia Valeria Ozorio Dutra

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Relationship Between Total Neuropathy Score-reduced, Neuropathy Symptoms and Function. , Ashraf Abulhaija

Validation of the Electronic Kids Dietary Index (E-KINDEX) Screening Tool for Early Identification of Risk for Overweight/Obesity (OW/OB) in a Pediatric Population: Associations with Quality of Life Perceptions , Patricia A. Hall

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Effectiveness of an Intervention Designed to Improve Chlorhexidine (CHG) Bathing Technique in Adults Hospitalized in Medical Surgical Units , Janette Echemendia Denny

Levels of Distress Among Women Veterans Attending a Women’s Health Specialty Clinic in the VA Healthcare System , Debbie T. Devine

Examination of the Use of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in the Treatment of Symptoms of PTSD and Sleep Dysfunction in Veterans and Civilians , Marian Jevone Hardwick

Investigating the Mutual Effects of Depression and Spiritual Well-being on Quality of Life in Hospice Patients with Cancer and Family Caregivers Using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model , Li-Ting Huang

The Change in Nutritional Status in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: A Retrospective Descriptive A Retrospective Descriptive Study , Dina A. Masha'al

Exploring the Relationship Between Severity of Illness and Human Milk Volume in Very Low Birth Weight and Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants Over Six Weeks , Shannon Leigh Morse

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Scores and Novel Risk Factors in Relation to Race and Gender , Johanna Wilson

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

A Comparative Evaluation of the Learner Centered Grading Debriefing Method in Nursing Education , Marisa J. Belote

Sleep, Depressive Symptoms and Cognition in Older Adults and Caregivers of Persons with Dementia , Glenna Shemida Brewster

The Relationship between Hearing Status and Cognitive Performance and the Influence of Depressive Symptoms in the Older Adult , Julie A. Daugherty

Basal Salivary Oxytocin and Skin to Skin Contact among Lactating Mothers of Premature Infants , Jessica Marie Gordon

The Relationship Between Nurses' Emotional Intelligence and Patient Outcomes , Mary Kutash

Sexual Functioning and Body Image in Younger Breast Cancer Survivors , Carly Lynn Paterson

Cognitive Load of Registered Nurses During Medication Administration , Sarah Faith Perron

A Comparison of Quality of Life between Intense and Non-Intense Treatment for Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia and High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome , Sara Marie Tinsley

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Acculturation, Self-Efficacy and Breastfeeding Behavior in a Sample of Hispanic Women , Ivonne F. Hernandez

Knowledge and Acceptance of HPV and the HPV Vaccine in Young Men and Their Intention to be Vaccinated , Brenda Renee Jasper

The Relationships Between Sleep Disturbances, Depression, Inflammatory Markers, and Sexual Trauma in Female Veterans , Ellen Marcolongo

Examination of Possible Protective Effect of Rhesus D Positive Blood Factor on Toxoplasma-related Depressive Symptoms in Pregnancy , Lisa Lynn Parnell

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Primary Care Nurse Practitioners Regarding Skin Cancer Assessmnets: Validity and Reliability of a New Instrument , Debra Michelle Shelby

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Knowledge and Practice of Reproductive Health among Mothers and their Impact on Fetal Birth Outcomes: A Case of Eritrea , Winta Negusse Araya

Race/Ethnicity, Subjective and Objective Sleep Quality, Physical and Psychological Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors , Pinky H. Budhrani

Factors Predicting Pap Smear Adherence in HIV-infected Women: Using the Health Belief Model , Crystal L. Chapman Lambert

The Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status and Body Mass Index on Vitamin D Levels in African American Women with and without Diabetes Living in Areas with Abundant Sunshine , Shani Vann Davis

Predictors of Quality of Life in Patients with Cutaneous T cell Lymphoma , Darcie Marie Deaver

Relationship between dysphoric moods, risk-taking behaviors, and Toxoplasma gondii antibody titers in female veterans , Allyson Radford Duffy

Prenatal Stress, Depression, and Herpes Viral Titers , Pao-Chu Hsu

Factors Associated with Fear of Breast Cancer Recurrence Among Survivors , Jean Marie Lucas

Sickle Cell Disease: The Role of Self-Care Management , Nadine Matthie

Factors Influencing Vaccination Decisions in African American Mothers of Preschool Age Children , Chauntel Mckenzie Mcnair

The Strong Black Woman, Depression, and Emotional Eating , Michelle Renee Offutt

Development of an Investigator-designed Questionnaire Concerning Childbirth Delivery Options based on the Theory of Planned Behavior , Chun-Yi Tai

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

The Mediating Effect of Distress Caused by Constipation on Predictors of Quality of Life of Hospice Patients with Cancer. , Abdel Alkhalouf

Testing a Model of Bacterial Vaginosis among Black Women , Jessica Brumley

The Effect of Tight Glycemic Control on Surgical Site Infection Rates in Patients Undergoing Open Heart Surgery , Sierra Gower

Development of a Tool for Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment and Preventive Interventions in Ancillary Services Patients , Monica Shutts Messer

Hospice Nurses- Attitudes and Knowledge about Pain Management , Amie Jacqueline Miller

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Literacy and Hazard Communication Comprehension of Employees Presenting to an Occupational Health Clinic , Christine Bouchard

A Meta-Analysis of Cultural Competence Education in Professional Nurses and Nursing Students , Ruth Wilmer Gallagher

Relationship Between Cancer-Related Fatigue and Depression: A Pilot Study , Gloria Michelle Guess

A Comparison of Oncology and Non-Oncology Nurses in Their Knowledge of Cancer Pain Management , Nicole Houle

Evaluating Knowledge and Attitudes of Graduate Nursing Students Regarding Pain , Eric Bartholomew Jackson

Bone Marrow Transplant Nurses' Attitudes about Caring for Patients Who are Near the End of Life: A Quality Improvement Project , Leslie Lauersdorf

Translation and Adaptation of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) Scale Into Tigrigna Language for Tigrigna Speaking Eritrean Immigrants in the United States , Mulubrhan Fisseha Mogos

Nurse Manager Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor to Registered Nurse Job Satisfaction and RN Perceptions of the Practice Environment and the Relationship to Patient, Nursing and Hospital Outcomes , Jacqueline Cecilia Munro

The Relationship of Mid-Pregnancy Levels of Cytokines, Stress, and Depression with Gestational Age at Delivery , Melissa Molinari Shelton

Prophylactic, Risk-Reducing Surgery in Unaffected BRCA-Positive Women: Quality Of Life, Sexual Functioning and Psychological Well-Being , Sharon Tollin

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

The Relationship Between FAM5C SNP (rs10920501) Variability, Metabolic Syndrome, and Inflammation, in Women with Coronary Heart Disease , Jennifer L. Cline

Women’s Perceptions of Postpartum Stress: A Narrative Analysis , Nancy Gilbert Crist

Lived Experience: Near-Fatal Adolescent Suicide Attempt , Phyllis Ann Dougherty

Exploring the Relationships among Work-Related Stress, Quality of Life, Job Satisfaction, and Anticipated Turnover on Nursing Units with Clinical Nurse Leaders , Mary Kohler

A Comparative Study of Knowledge of Pain Management in Certified and Non-Certified Oncology Nurses , Sherrie A. LaLande

Evaluating Knowledge and Attitudes of Undergraduate Nursing Students Regarding Pain Management , Jessica Latchman

Evaluation of Oncology Nurses' Knowledge, Practice Behaviors, and Confidence Specific to Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy , Rebecca Denise McAllister

Moderating the Effectiveness of Messages to Promote Physical Activity in Type 2 Diabetes , Rachel E. Myers

Factors Affecting the Process of Clinical Decision-Making in Pediatric Pain Management by Emergency Department Nurses , Teresa A. Russo

The Correlation Between Neuropathy Limitations and Depression in Chemotherapy Patients , Melissa Thebeau

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Fatigue Symptom Distress and Its Relationship with Quality Of Life in Adult Stem Cell Transplant Survivors , Suzan Fouad Abduljawad R.N., B.S.N.

Nursing Advocacy and the Accuracy of Intravenous to Oral Opioid Conversion at Discharge in the Cancer Patient , Maria L. Gallo R.N., O.C.N.

Transitional Care for Adolescents with HIV: Characteristics and Current Practices of the Adolescent Trials Network Systems of Care , Patricia Gilliam

The Effect of Ethical Ideology and Professional Values on Registered Nurses’ Intentions to Act Accountably , Susan R. Hartranft

Falls in Bone Marrow Transplant Patients: A Retrospective Study , Lura Henderson R.N., B.S.N.

Predictors of cancer caregiver depression symptomatology , Henry R. Rivera

Psychosocial outcomes of weight stigma among college students , Sabrina Joann Robinson

The Experience of Fatigue and Quality of Life in Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer , Andrea Shaffer

The Relationship Between Uncertainty in Illness and Anxiety in Patients With Cancer , Naima Vera

Shifting Paradigms: The Development of Nursing Identity in Foreign-Educated Physicians Retrained as Nurses Practicing in the United States , Liwliwa Reyes Villagomeza

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Prostate Cancer Screening Intention Among African American Men: An Instrument Development Study , Susan Anita Baker

The Geriatric Cancer Experience in End of Life: Model Adaptation and Testing , Harleah G. Buck

Communication Systems and HIV/AIDS Sexual Decision Making in Older Adolescent and Young Adult Females , Rasheeta D. Chandler MS, ARNP, FNP-BC

Relationship of Anger Trait and Anger Expression to C-Reactive Protein in Post-Menopausal Women , Rosalyn Gross

Identifying Patients with Cancer at Risk of Experiencing a Fall While Hospitalized , Joann M. Heaton

Modulation of Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cell Maturation and Function by Cigarette Smoke Condensate in a Bronchial Epithelial Cell Co-Culture Model , Alison J. Montpetit

Cancer Patients with Pain: Examination of the Role of the Spouse/Partner Relationship In Mediating Quality of Life Outcomes for the Couple , Mary Ann Morgan

Development of an Ecological Model to Predict Risk for Acquisition of Clostridium difficile -Associated Diarrhea During Acute Care Hospitalization , Susan Elaine Steele

Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Assessment Tool , Cindy S. Tofthagen

Health Decision Behaviors: Appropriateness of Dietary Choice , Daryle Hermelin Wane

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

The Relationship Between Sleep-Wake Disturbance and Pain in Cancer Patients Admitted to Hospice Home Care , Marjorie Acierno

Wheelchair Positioning and Pulmonary Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy , Lee Barks

Structural Equation Model of Exercise in Women Utilizing the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms and Social Cognitive Variables , Sarah Elizabeth Cobb

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Home > Nursing > dissertations and theses

College of Nursing Dissertations and Theses

The College of Nursing Dissertations and Theses Series is comprised of dissertations theses authored by Marquette University's College of Nursing doctoral and master's students.

Theses/Dissertations from 2024 2024

ASSESSING NURSE PRACTITIONER STUDENT COMPETENCE USING A MODIFIED CREIGHTON COMPETENCY EVALUATION INSTRUMENT , Katie L. McDermott

SITUATION AWARENESS PREPARATION AND PREBRIEFING: FOSTERING THE COGNITVE PROCESSES OF THINKING LIKE A NURSE IN SIMULATION , Amanda Lynn Potter

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Why We Work: Exploring the Relationships Between Work Rewards, Burnout, and Intention to Leave for Professional Nurses , Jacqueline Christianson

Examining Relationships Among Nursing Students' Views of Suffering, Positive Thinking, and Professional Quality of Life , Ruth Anne Engbers

THE IMPACT OF PEDAGOGY AND PROGRAM ON PSYCHIATRIC-MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION FOR PRE-LICENSURE NURSING STUDENTS , Virginia F. Riggs

APPLICATION OF THE SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH TO GERIATRIC PATIENTS BY NURSE PRACTITIONER STUDENTS , Theresa Marie Gruenke Schnable

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Mediating Effects of Positive Thinking on Compassion Fatigue, Compassion Satisfaction, and Resilience in Nurse Leaders , Jay Randall Gottschalk

Exploring Relationships Between Depression Self-stigma and Trust in Primary Care Provider on Willingness to Seek Help , Tana Karenke

The Impact of Nutrition Literacy and Neighborhood on Diet Quality in the Mexican Origin Population , Sylvia Pena

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Experiences of Exclusively Expressing Breast Milk for Term Infants: A Qualitative Analysis , Lisa Anders

Examining the Relationship of Physical Activity, Inflammation & Adiposity on Physical Function with Gender Differences , Jeanne Hlebichuk

Securing Nasogastric Tubes in Children , Julie Ann Lavoie

Exploring Culture of Safety and Failure to Rescue , Holly Lynn Losurdo

Processes Used by Mothers in Opioid Recovery to Manage the Needs of the Maternal-Infant Dyad: A Grounded Theory Study , Nicole M. Mattson

Pregnant Women's Experiences with Gastrointestinal Discomforts and Strategies They Use to Cope , Heidi Jo Paquette

Examining Social Factors in Self-Management for Older Adults Living Alone , Margaret Salinas

Effectiveness of a Postpartum Breastfeeding Protocol for Avoiding Pregnancy and Descriptive Analysis of the Physiology of the Postpartum Transition , Mary Schneider

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Modeling Heart Failure Predictive Mortality in Skilled Nursing Facilities , Stephen Charles Biondi

Understanding the Requisite Content for Interprofessional Education on Sentinel Injuries, A Qualitative Study , Elizabeth A. Cleek

Leading Rural Nurse Academic Progression , Cynthia Jean Larsen

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

The Influence of Continuity of Nursing Care in the Acute Care Setting on Readiness for Discharge and Post-Discharge Return to Hospital , Sarah J. Bahr

Understanding Baccalaureate Nursing Education Progression from the Student Perspective Using a Grounded Theory Approach , Jennifer Jean Dahlman

Identifying a History of Nonfatal Strangulation: What Impacts Screening by Healthcare, Law Enforcement and Advocates? , Jennifer Delwiche

Healthcare Provider Influence on Health Behavior Modification in Gestational Diabetics , Denise K. Fryzelka

Measuring Polyvictimization Among Vulnerable Children: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis , Kelli J. Jones

Toward Quality Preceptorship: A Dyad Sudy , Laurie Ann Kunkel-Jordan

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Qualitative Exploration of the Perceptions of Nursing Undergraduates Regarding Family Care at End-of-Life , Penny A. Alt-Gehrman

Evaluation of Clinical Growth and Nursing Student Motivation in the Traditional Clinical Learning Environment , Jessica Barkimer

United States Born Mexican Origin Women's Descriptions About Their Eating Patterns , Juanita Teresa Garcia

Comparing Interprofessional Socialization in Mixed Discipline and Nursing Student only Cohorts , Kara Groom

Chronic Stress and Reproductive Function in Female Childhood Cancer Survivors , Theresa Marie Hardy

Understanding Relationships Between Early Life Toxic Stress, Childhood Socioeconomic Disadvantage, and Allostatic Load in Adolescence , Amanda King

Pre-Death Grief, Resourcefulness and Perceived Stress Among Care Givers of Partners with Young Onset Dementia , Karie Kobiske

Home Health Care Effect in Post-Discharge Return to Hospital , Danielle M. Siclovan

The Impact of Advance Directives on the Intensity of Care Received in the Acute Care Setting in Older Adults , Marsha Helen Tyacke

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Mediating Effects of Positive Thinking and Social Support on Suicide Resilience Among Undergraduate Students , Denise Marie Matel-Anderson

The Development and Psychometric Analysis of the MU- Fertility Knowledge Assessment Scale , Qiyan Mu

Pediatric Oncology Nurses' Experiences with Prognosis-Related Communication , Amy Rose Newman

Relationship of Exposure to Heart Failure Discharge Teaching to Readmission Within 30 Days , Becky Ann Pogacar

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Effect of Sequence of Simulated and Clinical Practicum Learning Experiences on Clinical Competency , Jamie Hansen

Experiences of Registered Nurses Who Were Not Initially Successful on the NCLEX-RN, Then Subsequently Passed , Tammy L. Kasprovich

Racially and Ethnically Underrepresented Students’ Completion of RN BSN Program: Factors Affecting Success , Patricia Ann Varga

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Role of Shared Care in the Relationship between Depressive Symptoms and Self-Care in Patients with Heart Failure , Susan Cole

Diffusion of Inclusion: Measuring Willingness , Janet A. Levey

Effects of Spiritual Care Education on Pediatric Nurses' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Competence , Cheryl Lynn Petersen

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Relationships among Uncertainty, Coping, and Psychological Distress in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment , Jennifer Sjostedt Avery

Spirituality And Religiosity In Adolescents With Sickle Cell Disease: A Descriptive Qualitative Study , Dora L. Clayton-Jones

A Feminist Perspective On Listening To Women: Birth Stories Of Vaginal Birth Following Previous Cesarean Delivery , Elizabeth Hill-Karbowski

The Influence Of Patient Activation And Social Facilitation On Engagement In Postpartum Weight Self-Management Behaviors , Jennifer Marie Ohlendorf

Hispanic Mothers' Normative Beliefs and Intentions about the Discussion of Sex-Related Topics with Their Adolescent Daughters , Dana M. Rodriguez

Antecedents of Regular Exercise among Women Who Do and Do Not Achieve Weight Loss Over Six Months , Heather Vartanian

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Relationships Between Nurse Attributes, Site Characteristics, And Labor Support Attitudes And Behaviors Among Intrapartum Nurses , Ann Prenger Aschenbrenner

Patient Perceptions of Patient-Empowering Nurse Behaviors, Patient Activation, and Functional Health Status After Surgery , Teresa Arline Jerofke

Self-Care Behaviors of African Americans with Heart Failure: A Photovoice Project , Aimee A. Woda

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Academic Success Factors Influencing Linguistically Diverse and Native English Speaking Associate Degree Nursing Students , Josie Lynn Veal

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Associate Degree Nursing Students' Thoughts, Feelings, and Experiences of Short Study Abroad in a Low-Income Country , Cynthia Foronda

A Narrative Analysis of Perinatal Hospice Stories , Anthony Adams Lathrop

The Transition from Hospital to Home in Parents of Pediatric Solid Organ Transplant Recipients , Stacee M. Lerret

The Lived Experience of Hispanic new Graduate Nurses in the United States , Esther Morales

Pushing Techniques Used by Midwives When Providing Second Stage Labor Care , Kathryn Osborne

The Association of Spirituality, Religiosity, Depression, Anxiety, and Drug Use Among Persons Undergoing Methadone Maintenance Therapy , Linda B. Piacentine

Parenting Behaviors and Their Relationship with a Child's Weight Status , Michele L. Polfuss

African American Women's Infant Feeding Choices: Analyzing Self-Efficacy and Narratives from a Black Feminist Perspective , Karen Marie Robinson

More than S.K.I.N. Deep: Decreasing Pressure Ulcer Development in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit , Christine A. Schindler

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Efficacy of a behavioral intervention to decrease medication transcription errors among professional nurses , Kathleen Ann Becker

Quality of Life: The Humanbecoming Perspective, A Descriptive Exploratory Study , Barbara J. Johnson Farmer

Factors Associated with Nurses' Perceptions of Patient Safety Culture in One University Hospital in China , Xianqiong Feng

The Meaning of Spirituality in Elders with Dementia , Lesley Boaz Gardiner

Understanding Relationships in Health Related Quality of Life for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder , Norah Louise Johnson

Loneliness, Self-Esteem, Cognition, Physical Functioning, and Nursing Home Satisfaction As Predictors of Depression , Lynn Rose Maloney

The Impact of Health Literacy and Patient Trust Glycemic Control , Josephine M. Mancuso

Investigating Relationships Among Collaborative Behavior, RN Experience and Perceptions of Discharge Teaching Quality , Jane Morgan Nosbusch

Is a School Based Educational Program Effective in Changing Knowledge Regarding the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome? , Margaret Kay Stelzel

Effects of Beta Blockade on Physiologic Regulation, Depressive Symptoms and Heart Failure Severity , Kimberly A. Udlis

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Self-Efficacy, Outcome Expectation, Self-Care Behavior and Glycosylated Hemoglobin Level in Persons with Type 2 Diabetes , Kathryn B. Kott

Oppression in 21st Century Nursing , Linda K. Matheson

Predictors of success and failure on the NCLEX-RN for Baccalaureate graduates , Christine L Vandenhouten

Predictors of Success and Failure on the NCLEX-RN for Baccalaureate Graduates , Christine L. Vandenhouten

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Being-With Dying: Tacit Wisdom Embedded in the Experiences of Nurses Who Attend to Dying , Virginia L. Burton

Theses/Dissertations from 1999 1999

An Organizational Case Study of Shared Leadership Development in Nursing , Vicki George

Submissions from 1971 1971

NURSES' PERCEPTIONS OF THEIR HOSPITAL'S ORGANIZATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS , AUDREY MABEL STENVALL DE BLOCK

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Nursing Dissertation Topics Ideas & Examples

Published by Alvin Nicolas at January 10th, 2023 , Revised On May 8, 2024

Choosing an appropriate nursing dissertation topic is an extremely important step toward producing an exciting and manageable research study. This post aims to help medicine and nursing students select the most appropriate dissertation title according to their research interests.

It should be noted that the subject of nursing encompasses various areas of knowledge, including but not limited to general nursing, community nursing, public health , environmental health, mental health, clinical management, health organization, and occupational health and safety.

So there is plenty to whet your appetite here. Nursing dissertations can be based on either primary research or secondary research. Primary data nursing dissertations incorporate the collection and analysis of data obtained through questionnaires and surveys. Secondary data nursing dissertations, on the other hand, make use of existing literature to test the  research hypothesis .

To help you get started with brainstorming for medicine and nursing topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest nursing dissertation topics that can be used for writing your dissertation.

These topics have been developed by PhD-qualified writers of our team , so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting  a brief research proposal  from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an  introduction  to the problem,  research questions , aim and objectives ,  literature review  along with the proposed  methodology  of research to be conducted.  Let us know  if you need any help in getting started.

Check our  example dissertations  to get an idea of  how to structure your dissertation .

You can review step by step guide on how to write your dissertation  here.

View our free dissertation topics database.

• Evidence-based Practice Nursing Dissertation Topics
• Child Health Nursing Dissertation Topics
• Adult Nursing Dissertation Topics
• Critical Care Nursing Dissertation Topics
• Dementia Nursing Dissertation Topics

Midwifery Dissertation Topics

• Palliative Care Nursing Dissertation Topics
• Mental Health Nursing Dissertation Topics
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Nursing Dissertation Topics

2024 Nursing Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: assessing the parental perceptions and attitude towards the adoption of healthy behaviour patterns to control obesity and overweight concerns in young children..

Research Aim: This study aims to analyse the parent’s perceptions and attitudes in relation to healthy behaviours practises to control obesity and overweight disorders in young children. It will also focus on the obstacles parents or caregivers experience when it comes to obesity control in young children.

Topic 2: Investigating the importance of community nursing for the care of Old People suffering from Dementia- A case study of the UK.

Research Aim: This study aims to find the usefulness of nursing practise for the care of people suffering from dementia. This will also focus on how trained nurses are very professional in providing information and support to the people suffering from dementia so that they can prepare themselves to live their life well with dementia. This study will conduct a systematic review of published literature to find the potential roles of nurses in taking care of people living with dementia. Furthermore, it will also look at various characteristics and effectiveness of nurse interventions.

Topic 3: Assessing the role of midwives in providing medical services to pregnant women in low-income countries.

Research Aim: Midwives are health professionals who are specialised in taking care of pregnant women and newborn health. Women living In low-income countries are far less to get midwifery care, and it is very challenging for them to face this situation. The aim of this study is to find the role of midwives in providing medical services to pregnant women in low-income countries. Furthermore, this study will also look at the challenges and factors in getting midwifery care for women faced with low income.

Topic 4: Examining the mental health of nurses working in ICU.

Research Aim: Nurses working in critical care had significantly higher rates of emotional discomfort and poor health than other nurses, which has a negative impact on their mental health. However, it is unknown how intensive care nurses’ physical health impacts the frequency of medical mistakes. This study will examine the mental health of nurses working in ICU and how it affects their work and causes medical errors. Furthermore, it will also analyse the perception of nurses working in ICU.

Topic 5: Examing nursing practices during the stages of newborn development – A comparative study between the UK and US.

Research Aim: This study’s primary goal is to compare nursing staff practises during the stages of newborn development in the US and UK. This study will compare the effects of nurses’ care practises and will look at the challenges that occur during this process and how they handle these challenges.

Covid-19 Medicine and Nursing Research Topics

Topic 1: research to identify the training resources of nurses to combat the covid-19 pandemic.

Research Aim: Nursing staff plays a vital role in treating and recovering patients from illness. This study will identify the training programs and resources designed for nursing staff to combat the Coronavirus pandemic.

Topic 2: Research to find whether robotic nurses will be a long-lasting solution to treat the patients of Coronavirus.

Research Aim: Medical teams across the globe have been on their toes to combat coronavirus, and substantial human resources have also been invested in overcoming this crisis. This study will focus on collecting information about the idea of using robotic nurses to treat patients of Covid-19. It will reveal the advantages and disadvantages of using robotic nurses.

Topic 3: Research to analyse the risk of nurses getting affected while treating Covid-19 patients

Research Aim: This study will focus on analysing the risks faced by nurses and the medical team. It will discuss the safety measures adopted to protect the medical staff, the challenges they face, and appropriate solutions to minimise them.

Topic 4: Research to identify the impacts of Coronavirus on pharmaceutical industries

Research Aim: This study will focus on identifying the impacts of coronavirus on pharmaceutical industries, production, and supply of medicines. It will discuss the possible ways to combat COVID-19.

Topic 5: Research to know the contributions of pharmaceutical industries to combat Covid-19

Research Aim: This study will focus on identifying the contributions of pharmaceutical industries to combat Covid-19. Did COVID-19 increase the business of pharmaceutical sectors?

More Coronavirus and Nursing Dissertation Topics

• Coronavirus research: Keys to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS.
• Investigating the nurses in Australia issue plea to stop violence, theft of sanitizer and masks.
• To study and analyse the emergency Coronavirus guidelines for nurses and medical staff across the globe with a particular focus on the USA and the UK.
• Coronavirus in nursing homes: ‘We are going to see deaths’ – A case study of the UK nursing homes
• Why are nursing homes at risk during the Coronavirus pandemic? – Case study of any European state
• How nurses and medical staff can help parents and children cope with the mental issues and uncertainly in the midst of coronavirus crisis
• To devise strategies to combat testing and prevention kits in hard-hit nursing homes.
• How coronavirus has the potential to lead shortage of nurses and doctors across the globe?

Nursing and Medicine Dissertation Topics for 2023

Topic 1: impact of coronavirus on the pharmaceutical industry.

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the impact of Coronavirus on the pharmaceutical industry.

Topic 2: The role and impact of occupational safety and health in medical clinics

Research Aim: This research aims to measure the impact of occupational safety and health in medical clinics.

Topic 3: Increasing work pressure and occupational health concerns

Research Aim: This research aims to address increasing work pressure and occupational health concerns during a pandemic.

Topic 4: How researchers’ nurses may enhance the operation of clinical research?

Research Aim: The quality improvement of the performance of health care includes scientific study. The research team from the place where there was a shortage of research has established a steadily growing spectrum of testing within the Bradford Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust. In this research, the main emphasis would be on the key role of research nurses.

Topic 15: Developing effective nursing strategies for dealing with patients possessing acute and chronic pain: A case study of NHS

Research Aim: The concept of nursing has evolved since recent times. Many health care institutions have developed effective strategies to increase nursing efficiency. Therefore, the main purpose of the research is to develop effective nursing strategies for dealing with patients possessing acute and chronic pain by analysing the case study of the NHS.

Topic 6: Critical analysis of community nursing and health care needs: A comparative analysis of UK and USA

Research Aim: Nursing and health care needs have a direct and positive relationship. The main purpose of this research is to conduct a critical analysis of community and health care needs. This research will compare the UK and USA nursing practices and provide recommendations to improve the existing strategy.

Topic 7: Analysing the societal acceptance of Marijuana: The case of developing countries

Research Aim: The purpose of this study is to contemplate upon the key benefits that the use of Marijuana, within a medicinal capacity, has. Ideally, in developing countries, the use of marijuana is considered “Taboo” or unacceptable by the members of the community/society. Hence, the study intends to analyze the societal acceptance of Marijuana within developing countries.

Topic 8: Developing effective nursing strategies for dealing with patients suffering Coronavirus disease: A case study of NHS

Research Aim: The coronavirus has taken the world by storm, infecting millions in nearly 200 countries. Many health care institutions have developed strategies to increase nursing efficiency. Therefore, the main purpose of the research is to identify effective nursing strategies for dealing with patients possessing coronavirus by analysing the case study of NHS.

Topic 9: Coronavirus research: Keys to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS

Research Aim: This research will discuss the basic life cycle and replication of the well-studied coronavirus, mouse hepatitis virus (MHV), identifying the unique characteristics of coronavirus biology and highlighting critical points where research has made significant advances, and which might represent targets for antivirals or vaccines. Areas where rapid progress has been made in SCV research, will be described. Finally, areas of need for research in coronavirus replication, genetics, and pathogenesis will be summarised.

Mental Health Dissertation Topics

• Investigating the effectiveness of psychiatric treatment and medicine for patients suffering schizophrenia – A qualitative study based on UK mental health nurses and patients
• Exploring the legal aspects of mental health research in the UK
• To study and determine the causes to increasing number of suicides in the urban youth population in the developing world
• The role of socioeconomic backgrounds on the mental health of individuals
• Investigating the impact of early maternal mental illness on children
• Parents with serious mental health problems from the perspective of professionals who offer support
• Treatment of mental health difficulties by combining psychological and complementary therapies
• To perform an interpretative phenomenological analysis to treat older people with long term mental health difficulties
• To identify the barriers and risks associated with personalization within the context of mental illness
• To explore mental illness by conducting a biographical narrative study
• Deconstructing mental health difficulties: A critical enquiry into the views and opinions of professionals dealing with families, parents, and children

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Occupational Health and Safety Nursing Dissertation Topics

• To investigate occupational health and safety risks in the UK health care sector: Preventive techniques and recommended practices
• A quantitative study to evaluate the understanding and knowledge nurses have of occupational risks in an operating theatre environment
• To investigate the impact of occupational safety and health on the job performance of nurses
• To identify and discuss factors affecting the practice of occupational health nursing in London
• The role and impact of occupational safety and health in medical clinics
• To identify and discuss key occupational safety and health risks, challenges, and concerns in China
• Workplace health management and the role of occupational health nurses
• Increasing work pressure and occupational health concerns
• Occupational safety and health risks and practices among Filipino nurses
• Adopting a multi-climate approach to address patient safety issues in the nursing work environment
• To assess and understand occupational risks and nursing duties from an ergo logical perspective
• The need to realise the increasing importance of occupational safety and health issues in industrialised societies

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Environmental Health Dissertation Topics

• Improving awareness on environmental health issues by encouraging community participation
• To identify and analyse various environmental health concerns in the health care sector
• To determine the possibility of food poisoning and foot-related illness in urban regions from the perspective of environmental health
• Constrained ordinal models with application in occupational and environmental health
• To examine the impact of secondhand smoke on public health with particular focus on the relevant control strategies
• An investigation into the attitudes of bar staff workers to environmental tobacco smoke and the varying provision of smoke-free areas within public houses
• To study and understand the impact of traffic calming procedures on local air quality
• Investigating how reusable cleaning cloths can help to reduce cross-contamination within the food industry
• Analysing older driver behaviour and road safety
• To review public health nurses’ opinions on environmental hazards and health effects
• Disposing toxic wastes from the perspective of environmental health
• Recommended sanitary hygiene practices for developing countries – A quantitative study
• A qualitative study to address arsenic and lead poisoning issues

Related:  Environmental Engineering Dissertation Topics

Also Read This:   Occupational And Environmental Health Thesis And Dissertations

Evidence-Based Practice Dissertation Topics

• To identify and discuss evidence-based practices that enable nurses to provide high-quality care
• Use of evidence and knowledge management in clinical practice
• How the health care needs of elderly cancer patients can be satisfied with evidence-based nursing programme
• Investigating the use of evidence-based medicine for disease management
• To study the effectiveness of evidence-based practice in the health care industry
• To investigate the relationship between evidence-based practice and the research process
• To study the basic principles of evidence-based practice in the UK health care industry
• Why is it critical for nurses to base the foundation of their practices on reliable evidence?
• Barriers to implementing evidence-based practice and the strategies/organisations used to avoid these barriers
• The role of ethics and leadership in evidence-based nursing practice

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Health Organisations Dissertation Topics

• The Highest Attainable Standard: The World Health Organisation, Contentious Politics of Human Rights and the global health governance
• Factors contributing to efficient service delivery – A qualitative study on the implementation of health policies in Argentina
• Integrating technology, process and the people in lean healthcare
• Should World Health Organisation do more to satisfy the health care needs of people in the developing world? – The current programmes and future ambitions
• An investigation in the health care plans and associated costs of countries across the globe
• To study strategic management policies and strategies of World Health Organisation
• Investigating the power, culture, and dynamics of National Health Service in the UK
• Factors influencing the healthcare policies of new health organisations
• The extent of NHS focus on providing services to elderly
• Research trends and directions within the World Health Organisation
• Exploring practices and experiences of midwives in regards to the evaluation of maternal postnatal genital tract health
• Investigating midwifery practice in the third stage of labour
• To study the professional care in midwifery practice with a focus on woman centered-care
• To determine the factors contributing to midwives decision to stay in midwifery
• How do midwives perceive normal birth and how their ability to practice and support normality might be influenced by the professional and organisational culture of a maternity unit?
• A feminist technoscience perspective of the midwife’s role
• To investigate the challenges associated with carrying out a water-birth randomised controlled trial
• To what extend do midwives can facilitate informed choices among pregnant women?
• To identify and discuss the factors influencing the competence of midwives in a clinical setting
• The role of midwifery in relation to health risks to women due to postpartum depression

Community Nursing Dissertation Topics

• The impact of community participation on social inclusion, self-perception, and everyday lives of participants
• Quality of life, good practices, and senior citizens in residential care homes
• To investigate the impact of existing welfare ideologies and policies on the elderly in Leicestershire
• To what extent the community care has met the needs of the elderly with mental health difficulties after being discharged from long-stay psychiatric clinics? – A review of literature from the past 10 years
• Exploring the relationship between ethnicity and community nursing facilities in London
• Obesity awareness and prevention: Can food labelling help to deal with obesity problems in the USA?
• The role of community nursing practice in relation to health promotion
• Recommended practices and policies to ensure high-quality community nursing services to pregnant women
• Health care needs of children and the community nursing service in Leicestershire
• Factors affecting the quality of life of older people – A review of community nursing practices and challenges

Children Health Nursing Dissertation Topics

• Improving, recording, and perceiving school children’s health from the perspective of school health nursing
• Critical evaluation of child health nursing through education and practice
• Identifying challenges and support processes of child health nursing in developing countries
• To investigate the skills and abilities required to promote and sustain the emerging practice of child health nursing
• Leadership and intellectual skills are needed to be successful in positions of leadership and caring for children
• Caring for young people and children with complicated health needs
• To explore the effects of child patient death on nursing staff in a clinical setting: A literature review
• To understand children’s perspectives on community nursing
• To identify factors that can help to improve breastfeeding initiation practices among community nurses in the UK
• Children with congenital heart diseases and the role of parents – A literature review

Related:  Top QA on Children Health Nursing

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Clinical Management Dissertation Topics

• Clinical governance strategies and practices at National Health Services
• Hospitalised patients with diabetes and clinical decision support systems
• Developing optimum strategies for management of patients in adult intensive care units
• Clinical management of patients with prostate cancer – The risks and challenges
• Effectively managing elderly patients in a clinical setting
• Optimal management plan for patients with post-traumatic stress issues
• Use of advanced technology tools to improve clinical management efficiency
• To study various management strategies in surgical cases

Important Notes

As a student of medicine and nursing looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment with existing medicine and nursing theories – i.e., to add value and interest in the topic of your research.

The field of medicine and nursing is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like civil engineering ,  construction ,  law ,  healthcare , mental health , artificial intelligence , tourism , physiotherapy , sociology , management , marketing, cryptocurrencies and architecture . That is why it is imperative to create a project management dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic; it is the basis of your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, and there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in  writing your dissertation  as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the very initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best medicine and nursing dissertation topics that fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Take a look at some of our sample medicine and nursing dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Dissertation on Medicine and Nursing

A well-structured   dissertation can help students   to achieve a high overall academic grade.

• A Title Page
• Acknowledgements
• Declaration
• Abstract: A summary of the research completed
• Table of Contents
• Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems to be addressed. An outline of the structure of a dissertation  can also be added to this chapter.
• Literature Review :  This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature available on the chosen research topic, in light of  research questions  to be addressed. The purpose is to highlight and discuss the relative weaknesses and strengths of the selected research area whilst identifying any research gaps. Break down of the topic, and key terms can have a positive impact on your dissertation and your tutor.
• Methodology:  The  data collection  and  analysis  methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter which usually includes  research design,  research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods and  data analysis strategy .
• Findings and Analysis:  Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include  graphs ,  charts and  tables  to this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
• Discussion  and  Conclusion: The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter, and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section of the paper is to draw a linkage between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
• References:  This should be completed in accordance with your University’s requirements
• Bibliography
• Appendices:  Any additional information, diagrams, graphs that were used to  complete the  dissertation  but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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Home > USC Columbia > Nursing, College of > Nursing Theses and Dissertations

Nursing Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Is There a Relationship Between Direct Patient Care Registered Nurses Emotional Intelligence and Patient Satisfaction? , James J. Leach

The Impact of Shift Work on Women’s Neurological Health , Kathy Nelson

Nurse Perceptions of Caring and Professional Governance , Lan Angela Nguyen

Unlocking Population-Specific Treatments to Render Equitable Approaches and Management in Cardiovascular Disease (UPSTREAM CVD): African American Emerging Adults , Shannon Bright Smith

Substance Use Disorder Treatment Among African American Men Living in the Rural South of the United States , Serge Raoul Wandji

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Unintended Consequences of the Electronic Health Record And Cognitive Load in Emergency Department Nurses , Carolyn S. Harmon

Physical Activity and Breast Cancer Prevention Among Asian American Women , Jingxi Sheng

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Early Premature Infant Physiologic and Behavioral Indicators of ANS Instability , Karen Popp Becker

Nurses’ and Patients’ Perceptions of the Availability of Post-hospital Instrumental Support as a Predictor of 30- And 60-Day Acute Care Utilization , Beth E. Schultz

Race Is Not a Risk Factor: Examining the Influence of Models Of Care, Race, and Discrimination on Racial Disparities in Maternal Outcomes , Curisa Mae Tucker

Advancing Knowledge of Exercise as a Therapeutic Management Strategy for Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome , Pamela J. Wright

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Examining Caregiver Vigilance for Child Sexual Abuse , Kate K. Chappell

Exploring Turnover Among Nurse Managers, Directors, and Executives in Acute Care Hospitals , Deborah Hughes Warden

Psychometric Evaluation of Lung Cancer Stigma Among Lung Cancer Survivors in South Carolina , Lisa A. Webb

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Utilization Of The USDA Supertracker System In High Schools: A Quality Improvement Project , Twanda D. Addison

Online Risks, Sexual Behaviors, And Mobile Technology Use In Early Adolescent Children: Parental Awareness, Protective Practices, And Mediation , Kendra Allison

Implementation of a Depression Screening Tool for Cardiovascular Patients in the Primary Care Setting , Amber Nicole Ballentine

Forensic Patient Flow: An Imbalance Between Capacity And Demand , Versie J. Bellamy

An Evidence-Based Evaluation Tool To Assist Healthcare Providers In Their Assessment Of Effective mhealth Applications For The Management Of Chronic Health Conditions , Sara Belle Donevant

The Effect of a Compassion Fatigue Awareness and Self-Care Skills Educational Program on Retention Among Certified Nursing Assistants Working in a Veterans Nursing Home , Michele M. Dreher

Efficiency Of Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring Vs. 5-Day Serial Monitoring In A Military Treatment Facility , Kadijatu Kakay

Initiating the Loeb Criteria in Long-term Care , Janice Khauslender

High Fidelity Simulation Experience and Development of Clinical Judgment: Recent Graduate Nurses’ Reflections , Martha Kay Lawrence

Implementing a Surgical Pathway to Reduce Operating Room Cancellation Rates , Demerise Ott Minor

Home Exercise Therapy For The Treatment Of Knee Osteoarthritis , Kezia Nixon

Assessment Of An Educational Intervention To Increase Knowledge And Intention To Take HPV Vaccine And Cervical Cancer Screening In Nigeria , Chigozie Anastacia Nkwonta

Chemotherapy Knowledge And Health Literacy Among Women With Breast Cancer , Pearman deTreville Parker

Using Ultrasound Guided Peripheral Intravenous Catheters In Difficult Access Patients , Courtney Prince

Initiating a Peer Support Program for Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Richland and Lexington Counties , Danielle P. Simmons

Implementation Of Provider And Workflow Strategies To Increase Adherence To Tqip Guidelines In Traumatic Brain Injury , Regina Thompson

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Best Practice for Screening Adult Patients with Psoriasis for Polyautoimmunity: Celiac Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Crohn’s Disease , Susan Danielle Ashbaugh

Adherence of Nurse Practitioners to JNC 8 Guidelines , Stephanie E. Averette

Losing Weight with Five A’s (5 A’s): Assess, Advise, Agree, Assist, Arrange framework and Motivational Interviewing (MI) for health behavior change counseling , Jacqueline Baer

A Quality Improvement Project to Reduce the Incidence of Clostridium difficile Infection through Implementation of Evidence-Based Terminal Clean Procedures , Tamara Cook

Tuberculosis Screening in New Healthcare Employees: A Comparison of QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube Test and Tuberculin Skin Test , Mary C. Giovannetti

Utility of the Modified Early Warning System Score in Early Sepsis Identification , Lisa E. Hart

Picturing Rest: A Photovoice Study Of African American Women’s Perceptions And Practices Of Rest , Eboni T. Herbert Harris

Developing And Implementing A Quality Assurance Strategy For Electroconvulsive Therapy , Jessa Hollingsworth

Improving Leadership Communication In Nurse-Physician Dyad Teams , Lisa James

Assessment of Providers’ Perception and Knowledge of Overactive Bladder in Women: A Quality Improvement Project , Helen Wambui Ngigi

Simulation-Based Interprofessional Education in a Rural Setting , Ann D. Scott

An Evidence-Based Process Change to Improve Mammography Adherence , Tara E. Smalls

Evaluation, Treatment, and Education In The Hospice Setting By Initiating a Formalized Pain Card , Alyssa M. Soprano

Scribes Impact On Patient And Provider Experience In The Outpatient Setting , Kimberly A. Taylor

Barriers to the Use of Guardrails On IV Smart Pumps , Ivory Williams

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Nursing Attitudes towards Suicidal Patients in the Emergency Department: Assessment Interview Training , Belinda Beaver

MySleep101©: An Educational Mobile Medical Application for Sleep Health in Primary Care , Sonya Cook

Effects Of Sepsis Protocols On Health Outcomes Of Adult Patients With Sepsis , Monika U. Mróz

Multi-Symptom Management in Hospice Patients during End-of-Life Transition , Ashley N. B. Sirianni

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Best Practice for a Standardized and Safe Registered Nurse Shift Handoff , Nancy Rankin Ewing

An Evidence-Based Approach to Prepare Interdisciplinary Team Members for Implementation of the ABCDE Bundle , Jessica Murner Hamilton

Nurses Utilizing the V.O.I.C.E.S. HIV Prevention Intervention in the Black Church Community , Jason Richard

Unexpected and Interrupted Transitions Among Newly Licensed Registered Nurses: Perspectives of Nurse Managers and Preceptors , Sheri S. Webster

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Best Practice for Antipsychotic Medication Management in Community Dwelling Older Adults with Schizophrenia , Estelle Marie Brown

The Effects of Multiple Gratitude Interventions Among Informal Caregivers of Persons with Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease , Cristy DeGregory

An Analysis of Interpreter-Mediated Healthcare Interactions , Robin Dawson Estrada

Quality Improvement Project: A Comparison of Daily Routine Chest Radiography Versus Clinically-Indicated Chest Radiography in Preventing Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in Adult ICU Patients on Ventilators: An Evidenced Based Practice Project , Kimberly McKenney

Best Practices in High Fidelity Patient Simulation to Enhance Higher Order Thinking Skills , Kathryn S. Mock

Best Practices in the Management of Pediatric Obesity in Primary Care Clinics , Lori Moseley

Early Screening and Identification of Preschool Children Affected by Serious Emotional Disorders , Cathy Renee Robey-Williams

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Improving the Diagnostic Accuracy of Failure-to-Rescue , Amelia Marie Joseph

Best Practice Guideline For Managing Interstitial Cystitis In Adult Women , Amanda Thomas Langford

The Use of Ultrasound as an Adjunct to X-Ray For the Localization and Removal of Soft Tissue Foreign Bodies in an Urgent Care Setting , Stacy Lane Merritt

Prevention of Skin Breakdown In the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit , Lydia H. Palmer

A Pilot Intervention To Engage Nurses To Lead Transformation of The Workplace , Molly Patton

Foot Assessment In the Dialysis Unit , Karen Robertson

Emergency Department Triage Acuity Ratings: Embedding Esi Into the Electronic Medical Record , Candace Whitfield

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Best Practice to Promote Bone Health in Post-menopausal Women through Adequate Intake of Calcium and Vitamin D , Ellen Soley Adkins

Developing A Facilitated Pathway For Associate Degree Nursing Graduates to Enroll In An Rn-Bsn Program , Christy Vansant Cimineri

Pursuing Improved Quality of Life In the Atrial Fibrillation Population: Evidence-Based Practice , Jamie Hayes Cunningham

Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion in Comparison to Subcutaneous Insulin Injections in the Preschooler with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus , Meredith D'Agostino

Transition to Motherhood-A Qualitative Study of Low Income Women's First Term Pregnancy Experiences , Lisa Bennett Duggan

Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation For Prevention of Falls and Fractures In Older Adults , Cynthia Hartman

The Best Practice Guideline for Early Detection and Treatment of Heart Disease In Asymptomatic Adults with a Family History of Premature Coronary Artery Disease , Stephanie Brooke Huston

Best Practice Protocol for Patients with Schizophrenia and Co-Occurring Substance Use Disorders , Shauna Rae Jones

Transcultural Nursing Clinical Education: A Systematic Review of the Literature Since 2005 With Recommendations for International Immersion Clinical Courses , Deborah J. McQuilkin

Using a Consensus Process to Develop an Evidence-Based Practice Guideline for School Exclusion For Head Lice (Pediculosis Capitis) , Michelle Lorraine Myer

Using Therapeutic Writing to Deconstruct Recovery from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) , Pamela Phillips

Improving Outcomes by Improving Practice: Evidence-Based Assessment, Prevention and Documentation of Pressure Ulcers In the ICU. , Kristy Fry Speronis

Increasing Awareness of Fertility Preservation Options in Cancer Patients & Survivors , Norma Sweet

Identification, Prevention and Treatment of Children with Decreased Bone Density , Laura Lee Szadek

Assessment and Strategic Planning to Determine the Growth Feasibility of a Distance-Based Rural Baccalaureate Nursing Program , Amber Proctor Williams

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

A Research Utilization Project: Implementation of an Evidence-Based Behavioral Treatment for Students At-Risk of Dropout at Richland Northeast High School , Kathrene Carter Berger

The Impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 On the Evidence Based Practice of Distributive Justice Via Comfort Care In Elderly Burn Trauma Victims , Christina Pacileo Blottner

Parenting Interventions For Children Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence , Christie Michelle Furr-Roeske

Nurse State Legislators: The Journey to State Capitols , Debbie Whitman Herman

Autonomous Nurse Practitioner Practice: A Position Paper and Action Plan for Change , Patricia Susan Noser

Best Practices in The Use of Vena Cava Filters oo Prevent Pulmonary Emboli in Trauma Patients , Dennis Absher Taylor

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Assessment and Identification of Deliberate Self-Harm in the Adolescent and Young Adult Patient in the Primary Care Population , Courtney Brooks Catledge

A Best Practice Guideline for Screening and Treating Vitamin D Deficiency in a Primary Care Setting: Moving Beyond the Bones , Amy Jeanette Clark

Best Faculty Practice Plan Model for a Small College of Nursing , Sharyn Neiman Conrad

Impact of A Primary Care-Based Organ Donation Practice Initiative On Individual Willingness to Donate , Cyndi B. Faudree

Substance Abuse Treatment Avoidance, Length of Stay, and Criminal Justice Referral For Women of Reproductive Age In South Carolina Prior to and After theWhitner Decision (1993 to 2007) , Sarah J. Gareau

Childhood Obesity and School-Based Interventions: An Evidence-Based Best Practice Guideline , Jessica Guyton

The Best Practice Guideline For theTreatment of Pediatric Diaper Dermatitis , Kate Hansson Mack

A Church-Based Health Promotion Program for Older Adults: Impacts on Participants' Religiosity, Spirituality, and Social Support , Katherine Holland Pope

Dedicated Education Units: Dothey Improve Student Satisfaction? , Eileene Elizabeth Shake

Recommendation For A Best Practice Model of Hiv Management by Advanced Practice Registered Nurses In Primary Care Settings , Sabra Smith

Exploration of the Evidence to Support Clinical Practice to Decrease Hospital Readmission Rates For Patients With Chronic Pancreatitis , Shannon Bright Smith

Best Practices: Retaining Registered Nurses , Jessica Epps Wilkes

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Home > College of Nursing > Nursing Student Scholarship and Creative Works > Nursing Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Nursing Graduate Theses and Dissertations

A collection of Nursing Masters Theses and Doctoral Dissertations.

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Racial Discrimination, Social Support and Psychological Distress among Black Pregnant Women , Camilla Carey

The Associations Among Racial Discrimination, Perceived Stress and Birth Satisfaction Among Black Women , Amanda de la Serna

Exploring Mindfulness in Simulation-Based Learning: Promoting Self Care in Nursing Education , Marci Dial

Evaluating Relationships Between Clinical Judgment and Emotional Intelligence in Undergraduate Nursing Students , Helen Mills

Usability of a Video-Based Virtual Simulation Program for Hands-On Skill Building in Undergrduate Nursing Students , Heidi L. Penney

A Digitally Enhanced Virtual Cognitive Behavior Skill Building Intervention to Reduce Parent Stress and Family Obesogenic Behaviors , Sharlene Smith

Mother-Father Relationship and Perceived Stress among Black Pregnant Women: A Mixed Methods Approach , Jenna Wheeler

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Nurse Managers' Patient Safety Communication , Christine Deatrick

Exploration of the Oral Microbiome in Non-Ventilated Hospitalized Patients , Kimberly Emery

Social Support and Empowerment Among Caregivers of Children with Asthma , Lauren Lebo

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Factors Associated with Resilience and Sense of Coherence in Adult Transgender Persons: Identifying Predictors to Reduce Health Disparities in a Vulnerable Population , Jake Bush

Cognitive Rehearsal, Self-efficacy, and Workplace Incivility Among Baccalaureate Nursing Students , Alina Diaz-Cruz

Survivors of Human Trafficking: Reintegration into the Community and Society , Charrita Ernewein

Remembering to Resume: Using Simulation-based Education to Teach Nursing Students to Manage Interruptions , Peggy Hill

First Impressions of the Bedside Nurse From the Patient Perspective , Sharon Imes

The Influences of Generational Membership and Practice Environment on Nurse Manager Job Satisfaction , Angela Keith

Knowledge and Attitudes of Nurse Practitioner's Assessment of Adults with Signs and Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder , Kelli Lipscomb

Ethical Decision Making Among Nurses Participating in Social Media , Melissa Lynn

Hospital Readmission After Major Abdominal/Colorectal Surgeries: A Mixed-Methods Study , Ansu Sebastian

The Effect of the Medilepsy Mobile App on Medication Adherence and Transition Readiness in Adolescents and Young Adults with Epilepsy , Michelle Tall

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Access and Utilization of Prenatal Care in Florida and its Effects on Preterm Birth , Corinne Audette

Nurse-Physician Collaboration during Bedside Rounding: What is the Impact on the Nurse? , Martha Decesere

The Relationship of Cognitive Load and Different Participant Roles on Knowledge Retention in Simulation-based Learning Among Undergraduate Nursing Students , Amanda Houston

Undergraduate Nursing Students' Depth of Reflection and Perceptions of Self-Debriefing Following Virtual Simulation: A Multi-method Descriptive Study , Valorie MacKenna

Patients with a Left Ventricular Device and Factors Affecting Readmission , Diana Pitcher

Geographic Access to Community Mental Healthcare and Adherence to Treatment Among Patients with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders , Marie Smith-East

The Effect of Acuity-based Nurse Staffing on Nursing Medication Errors , Egidius Maria Eugene Waterval

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Persistence of Physical Activity Among Veterans , Jean Davis

Factors Influencing Nurse Practitioners' Weight Management Practices in Primary Care , Suzanne Hyer

Evaluation of Postoperative Air Leak and Chest Tube Drainage Systems after Pulmonary Resection , Kristina Jacobsen

Stress, Coping, and Quality of Life Among Parental Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder , Dawn Turnage

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Understanding the Perceived Experiences of Goal Setting of Mothers of Preschool Children: A Narrative Analysis , Dawn Eckhoff

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Influences of Mindfulness and Neuromotor Exercise Mode on Balance in Healthy Older Adults , Maxine Hicks

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

An Evaluation of Anxiety Following Substance Abuse Withdrawal and Assessment of Somatic Treatments presently Available with a Focus on Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation , Janet Hutchison

Perceived readiness to transition to adult health care for youth with cystic fibrosis and congruence with their caregivers' views , Valerie Lapp

Evaluating Moral Distress, Moral Distress Residue and Moral Courage in Oncology Nurses , Lolita Melhado

Preschool Attendance: A Parental and Teacher Perspective of Barriers and Behaviors using Grounded Theory Research , Anne Meoli

Prehabilitation (Prehab): Prevention in Motion , Billie Russell

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Impact of Interruption Frequency on Nurses' Performance, Satisfaction, and Cognition During Patient-Controlled Analgesia Use in the Simulated Setting , Kristi Campoe

Perceived Social Support and Self-care in Patients Hospitalized with Heart Failure , Lyne Chamberlain

Rapid Response Teams versus Critical Care Outreach Teams: Unplanned Escalations in Care and Associated Outcomes , Valerie Danesh

The Impact of Relational Coordination and the Nurse on Patient Outcomes , Fanya DeJesus

Family Care Giver Knowledge, Patient Illness Characteristics, and Unplanned Hospital Admissions in Older Adults with Cancer , Patricia Geddie

Helping Mothers Defend their Decision to Breastfeed , Kandis Natoli

Nurse Managers, Work Environment Factors and Workplace Bullying , Joy Parchment

A Faith-Based Primary Diabetes Prevention Intervention for At-Risk Puerto Rican Adults: A Feasibility Study , Sylvia Torres-Thomas

Pre and Post Implementation Evaluation of an Emergency Department Severe Sepsis Alert and Practice Protocol , Darleen Williams

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Factors Associated With Information Literacy Competencies Of The Traditional Baccalaureate Nursing Student , Patricia Lafferty

Mobile Phone Short Message Service (SMS) to Improve Malaria Pharmacoadherence in Zambia , Elinda Steury

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Evaluation Of A Mind-body Website By Women With Breast Cancer , Laura Beck

Nutrition Literacy And Demographic Variables As Predictors Of Adolescent Weight Status In A Florida County , Leslee D'Amato-Kubiet

Ventilator-associated Complications In The Mechanically Ventilated Veteran , Joan Grano

The Early Postpartum Experience Of Previously Infertile Mothers , Sigrid Ladores

Early And Intermediate Hospital-to-home Transition Outcomes Of Older Adults Diagnosed With Diabetes , Jacqueline Lamanna

Improving Chronic Kidney Disease Care With Group Visits , Vicki Montoya

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

An Exploratory Study Of Physiologic Responses To A Passive Exercise Intervention In Mechanically-ventilated Critically Ill Adults , Christina M. Amidei

The Self-described Experience Of Coping And Adaptation Associated With Workplace Stress Of Registered Nurses In The Acute Care Setting In Florida: An Ethnographic Study , Joyce Burr

Predictors Of Immunosuppressant Adherence In Long-term Renal Transplant Recipients , Sandra J. Galura

Stressors Experienced By Emergency Department Registered Nurses At The Bedside: A Phenomenological Study , Stephen D. Heglund

Noncardiac Chest Pain: The Use Of High Resolution Manometry As A Diagnostic Tool , Iman Hilal

Infection Control And Health Care Associated Infection (hcai) In The Nursing Home: A Study To Determine The Impact Of An Educational Video And Pamphlet About Infection Control On Knowledge And Perception Of Hand Hygiene In Certified Nurse Assistants , Kathe Hypes

Barriers To Timely Administration Of Thrombolytics In Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients , Elizabeth Joseph

Development And Evaluation Of An Instrument To Measure Mother-infant Togetherness After Childbirth , Carol Lawrence

Perceptions Influencing School Nurse Practices To Prevent Childhood Obesity , Susan Quelly

Front-line Registered Nurse Job Satisfaction And Predictors: A Meta-analysis From 1980 - 2009 , Deborah Anne Saber

Impact Of Cancer-specific Advance Care Planning On Anxiety, Decisional Conflict, And Surrogate Understanding Of Patient Treatment Preferences , Lynn Waser

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Duplicated Laboratory Tests : A Hospital Audit And Evaluation Of A Computerized Alert Intervention , Sharon Bridges

Exploring Women's Life Course Experiences With Weight Using Story Theory , Poff Allison Edmonds

Adherence Practices Of Caucasian Women With Hypertension Residing In Rural Florida An Exploratory Study , Jeanne M. Hopple

The Lived Experience Of Young-onset Dementia , Debra A. Hunt

Identifying Patients At Risk For Obstructive Sleep Apnea In Primary Health Care : Can Obesity In Combination With Other High-risk Diagnoses Be Used For Screening Purposes? , Clelia Lima

Clopidogrel Provision For Indigent Patients With St-elevation Myocardial Infarction , Sita S. Price

Comparative Retrospective Analysis Assessment Of Extracellular Volume Excess In Hypertensive Hemodialysis Patients , Amma Serwaah-Bonsu

Spirituality And Expectations Of Care Providers Of Older Patients With Chronic Illnes In North Central Florida , Myra Sherman

Factors Related To Birth Transition Success Of Late-preterm Infants , Karen L. Wright

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

The Experiences Of Health Care Providers Providing Comfort For Nursing Home Patients At The End Of Life , Herma Baker

Comparison Of Arnp And Physician Malpractice In States With And Without Controlled Substance Prescribing Authority , Deborah Chandler

A New Measure Of Parental Self-efficacy For Enacting Healthy Lifestyles In Their Children , Jonathan W. Decker

Effectiveness Of Probiotics In Preventing Antibiotic Associated Diarrhea And Clostridium Difficile In Long Term Care , Marva Edwards-Marshall

The Effect Of Combat Exercises On Cardiovascular Response: An Exploratory Study , MeLisa Gantt

The Impact Of Pre-operative Mupirocin Prophylaxis On Surgical Site Infections In Same-day Admission Open Heart Patients , Joanna Gerry

Evaluation Of A Simulation-enhanced Obstetric Clinical Experience On Learning Outcomes For Knowledge, Self-efficacy, And Transfer , Mary Elizabeth Guimond

The Incidence And Epidemiologic Factors Of Community-acquired Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Skin And Soft Tissue I , Ivonne Johnson

The Impact Of An Interdependent Conferencing Activity In An Online Rn-bsn Practicum Clinical Conference On Psychologocial Sense Of Community , Barbara Lange

Advanced Practice Nursing In The Faith Community Setting: A Case Study , Chianta Lindsey

Prevalence Of And Risk Factors For Intraoperative Non-euglycemia Events In Premature Neonates >2500 Grams , Zulay Ritrosky

Retrospective Analysis Of Screening Patterns In Cirrhotic Patients With Heptocellular Carcinoma , Shelly-Ann Scott-Castell

A Phenomenological Description Of The Lived Experience Of Creating Art For Women With Breast Cancer , Laurie Stark

Assessing Adult Attitudes Toward End-of-life Issues And Advanced Directives After Implementing An Educational Intervention In A , Marchina Tolbert-Jones

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Cohort Study Of Pain Behaviors In The Elderly Residing In Skilled Nursing Care , Allison Burfield

Effects Of An Evidence-based Intervention On Stress And Coping Of Families Of Critically Ill Trauma Patients , Sandra Knapp

Awareness Of Increased Risk For Heart Disease And Cardiovascular Risk Factors In Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus , Patricia Weinstein

Consumer Perspectives Of Health During Prenatal Care In The Usa And Iceland: An Exploratory Study , Claudia Wiseman

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

A Comparison Of Computer And Traditional Face-to-face Classroom Orientation For Beginning Critical Care Nurses , Patricia Anzalone

Health-care Seeking Behaviors Of Puerto Ricans With Diabetes Mellitus Who Live In South Florida: An Exploratory Study , Laura Gonzalez

Evaluation Of The Antecedents Of Cultural Competence , Mary Harper

The Impact Of A Nurse-driven Evidence-based Discharge Planning Protocol On Organizational Efficiency And Patient Satisfaction In , Tracey King

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Resiliency In Adolescent College Students , Nancy Ahern

The Impact Of Music On Postoperative Pain And Anxiety , Kelly Dixon Allred

Evaluation Of An Education Intervention For The Staff On The Head Of The Bed Elevation In The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit , Randall Johnson

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Writing a Thesis for Nursing School

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Writing a thesis presents an opportunity for graduate students to conduct scholarly inquiry, with the potential of publishing their finished paper. A thesis requires nursing students to identify a problem in nursing, and review academic literature while developing advanced research skills. Thesis advisors and committees guide students from the proposal phase to the final oral defense, a process that spans about two semesters.

Not every nursing student is required to complete a thesis. Some nursing programs offer a non-thesis option, in which candidates complete a final capstone project or oral examination on topics such as nursing theories and clinical practices.

The thesis process and requirements vary by school. Ohio State University’s master of science in nursing program’s final examination includes oral and written portions.

Want to know what to expect during the thesis process? Read on to learn how you can choose a thesis topic and orally defend your paper.

Choosing Your Nursing Thesis Topic

Nursing students must choose a thesis topic before they begin the research and writing process, typically within the first two terms of nursing school. A solid thesis must present an original argument, manageable research scope, and worthy academic pursuit. A thesis advisor or research professor will help to guide each student through the process of choosing a topic.

In the conceptual phase, candidates research potential thesis topics based on their interests within their nursing specialty. Students may start with a broad topic such as obesity and weight management, depression, or cardiovascular disease. To narrow their thesis argument, graduate students might focus on racial or ethnic groups, socio-economic issues, or current events.

After settling on a topic, students draft and submit a thesis proposal to an advisor or committee chair. Once this proposal has been approved, students can begin the formal work on his or her approved thesis topic.

While graduate students must complete a thesis to fulfill the requirements of a master’s degree in nursing, the thesis process also offers a chance for future nurses to immerse themselves in current academic literature and collaborate with fellow graduate students, faculty, and professors. A thesis can also serve as the foundation for doctoral studies. A thesis at the doctoral (PhD) level is called a dissertation.

Completing Your Nursing Thesis

Brainstorming a thesis topic begins as early as the first semester of a master’s in nursing program. The formal thesis process, which typically spans multiple terms, does not take place until the student’s final year, usually during the last term.

Thesis requirements vary by school, and students must meet specific deadlines and take prerequisite courses beforehand. At the University of Texas-Houston’s School of Nursing , candidates take a public health class before they submit a thesis proposal.

Future nurses work under the guidance of a thesis committee and advisor. The experience of writing a thesis trains students in original investigation, data collection, implementing research design, and public speaking. Candidates also learn to flex their analytical thinking skills and master a specific area of nursing as they develop the ability to analyze and draw conclusions through data.

At a program’s conclusion, students submit their thesis as a bound manuscript or electronic file. In addition to submitting a written report, students orally defend their final thesis in front of the committee. Many graduates also submit their manuscripts for publication.

Presenting Your Nursing Thesis

Graduate students generally orally defend their proposal and present their completed thesis in front of their committee. This committee also includes the thesis mentor, a faculty member specializing in the nursing discipline of their scholarly inquiry. There are generally 3 total committee members on a thesis committee.

Fellow graduate students or consultants outside of the college may attend presentations, if the process is open to the public. Otherwise, the thesis defense remains a private session, with students presenting their findings. The oral examination of the thesis takes up to one hour, but can last longer depending on how many questions the committee has for the student.

During that time, the committee evaluates the thesis based on how the research experience has shaped the student’s graduate education and the findings’ significance to the nursing field. When the exam concludes, the committee either accepts or rejects the thesis defense.

How is a Nursing Thesis Graded?

Nursing schools rely on each committee to formally grade each product in the thesis process. Some graduate nursing students may receive a letter grade, while other nursing schools adhere to a “pass” or “fail” policy.

To determine a grade, the committee assesses the thesis based on set criteria. Committee members look at the project’s key components, including the statement of purpose, literature review, research methodology, analysis, findings, and implications. The process and grading criteria for the thesis process can be found in the school’s graduate handbook. Most of these handbooks are published online for student review.

The thesis must identify significant issues or service gaps in nursing and present them in a concise and coherent fashion. Candidates must support all findings and analysis by research and explain the implications for healthcare.

The oral defense also factors into the grade. The committee grades the defense based on the quality of the student’s presentation, taking into consideration if the student spoke clearly and presented a logical and well-organized argument.

What is the Difference Between a Nursing Thesis and a Capstone?

A nursing thesis and a capstone demonstrate the student’s comprehensive knowledge and educational journey. Graduate students in a non-research track may have the choice of completing a clinical project. Doctoral of Nursing ( DNP ) students complete a capstone project.

Graduate-level nursing students work on an original scholarly inquiry during their thesis, while undergraduates recap their cumulative learning experience. The thesis process, which includes completing nursing courses and writing a proposal, takes place over the entire program.

Learn more about the difference between a thesis and capstone project on this page .

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Dissertations and DNP Projects

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) dissertation embodies the highest level of knowledge to influence and improve nursing science and the profession through various types of studies using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. A hallmark of doctoral research training, the PhD dissertation focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to conduct rigorous studies that extend the body of nursing knowledge; address important health care issues; and improve health outcomes, equity, and inclusion, all while informing health policy.

A PhD dissertation, grounded in the philosophy of science and a PhD candidate’s expertise, represents a standard of excellence and the candidate’s ability to conduct rigorous research. A PhD dissertation at UMSON contributes to the advancement of nursing/health science, solves important health care issues, and informs stakeholders. Nursing research is critical to the nursing discipline and is necessary for building evidence for practice that promotes optimal nursing care.

View the List of PhD Dissertations

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project embodies the highest level of knowledge in nursing practice. Influencing health care outcomes through leadership, policy, information technology, systems change, and patient-centered care, the DNP project focuses on translating science into clinical practice and the delivery of patient-centered and/or population-based care.

A DNP project’s collaborative and integrative experiences reflect the development and provision of safe, effective, timely, efficient, equitable, and person-centered care aimed at advancing health outcomes. The impact of UMSON DNP projects will reshape health care in the United States.

View the List of DNP Projects

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Penn Nursing is globally known for educating dynamic nurses—because our School values evidence-based science and health equity. That’s where our expertise lies, whether in research, practice, community health, or beyond. Everything we do upholds a through-line of innovation, encouraging our exceptional students, alumni, and faculty share their knowledge and skills to reshape health care.

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Dissertation

Candidacy examination, degree credentials, dissertation committee, dissertation status.

The Dissertation Proposal Defense serves as the Candidacy Examination. The purpose of the Candidacy Examination is to demonstrate an understanding of knowledge in the concentration area that supports the student’s dissertation research. Upon successful completion of required coursework and this examination, the student advances to degree candidacy status.

Students are expected to pass the Candidacy Examination no later than the end of the 3rd semester following Dissertation Seminar unless the student obtains written permission of the Graduate Group in Nursing Chair. Students who do not abide by these policies will no longer be in good academic standing (see “Academic Standing”) which will be reported to funding agencies and the Associate Dean for Academic Programs.  

Degree credentials (e.g., AD, BS, BSN, MS, MSN, PhD, EdD, DNP) are commonly used and indicate completion of a particular educational program. The highest degree attained is usually placed immediately after the last name. All or some of degrees can be used.

Terms used to indicate partial completion of a degree or student status such as “SNP” (student nurse practitioner), “PhDc” (PhD candidate) or “ABD” (all but dissertation) are fabricated terms and are not to be used.

The Dissertation Committee oversees and approves the research proposal, and ultimately, the dissertation.

Following Dissertation Seminar, the student will be registered for dissertation status.  Registration is done by the Office of Student Information and is required in each succeeding semester until all degree requirements are met. A student on Dissertation Status who wishes to take additional coursework may do so with approval of the academic advisor and Graduate Group in Nursing Chair depending on available funding for tuition. While supported by School of Nursing or federal funding, students may only take coursework that is directly related to their dissertation question.

The preparation of the dissertation constitutes the final phase of the PhD program. The dissertation should demonstrate a high-level of analytical and research competence and represent an original contribution to the field of nursing science. It is expected that the formation of a topic will begin in the early phases of study in the program and grow out of experience and work in the focused area of science and scholarship. It is also expected that the dissertation topic will build on the research and expertise of two or more members of the Graduate Group in Nursing. 

Dissertation Format

Generally, three dissertation formats are appropriate. The best option depends on the type of research planned. Each format is described in the table below, with an explanation of the nature and scope of work for the dissertation proposal. Note that all three formats are potentially suitable for qualitative and mixed-methods research; students pursuing a qualitative or mixed-methods project should consult with the Chair and the Dissertation Committee to determine the most appropriate format for the student’s specific study. The dissertation format must be approved by the student’s Dissertation Committee. Additional formats may be suggested as nursing science continues to evolve; formats of dissertations (and proposals) that are not addressed below will be considered. In this case, the Dissertation Chair and student will review their recommended format with the Graduate Group in Nursing Chair.

University of Pennsylvania policy permits dissertations based on joint work with other researchers, provided that, in such cases, a unique and separate dissertation is presented by each degree candidate. The candidate must include a concise account of his or her contribution to the whole work. Authorship of a dissertation by more than one degree candidate is not allowed.

Dissertation Formats

* NOTE: The proposal for a five-chapter or three-article dissertation may use the NIH PHS398 subheadings (Specific Aims, Background and Significance, Innovation, and Approach) provided that the background and significance are presented in sufficient depth to demonstrate thorough mastery of the relevant literature. PHS398 page limits do not apply; proposals using the PHS398 subheadings will likely be longer than 10-15 single-spaced pages. An NRSA proposal is not an acceptable dissertation proposal. If using the PHS398 subheadings for the dissertation proposal, the student should negotiate the appropriate scope of the Background and Significance section in advance with the Chair and Committee. An underdeveloped background and significance section may be grounds for failing the Candidacy Exam.   

The three manuscripts option may include manuscripts that are published during the course of the doctoral program; see the “Use of Copyrighted, Previously Published, or Coauthored Material” section of the University’s Doctoral Dissertation Manual  for details.

Requirements and Format of the Three Article Dissertation

The Graduate Group allows students who publish papers during their doctoral program to use these papers as part of their dissertation.  Following are the requirements and format for the Three Article dissertation option:

Dissertation Defense

When the written dissertation is completed to the satisfaction of the dissertation committee, an oral defense with public and closed components will be scheduled for two hours. The examining committee for the dissertation consists of the dissertation committee and two readers from the Graduate Group in Nursing who are appointed by the Graduate Group in Nursing Chair. All members of the Graduate Group and doctoral students as well as other individuals whose presence is desired by the student are invited to the public component. The public component consists of a brief presentation of the findings and their implications by the student followed by a brief question and answer by individuals who are not members of the examining committee. The following component may be either open or closed depending on the preference of the Dissertation Chair. In this portion, guests may be excused while questioning and discussion by the readers, the dissertation committee members, and the student occur. The dissertation defense is graded on a Pass/Fail basis with the majority of the five examiners necessary for a decision.

At least three members of the dissertation committee must participate in the defense. Defense may take place in person or remotely. 

Source: PennBook Academic Rules for PhDs and Research Masters Degrees

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A practical approach to the process of writing a dissertation

09 October, 2017

Writing a dissertation does not have to be stressful and should be a vehicle for learning, not a chore. This article offers practical advice for student nurses embarking on the task

While many student nurses find the task daunting, writing a dissertation is essentially a powerful vehicle for learning; it is an opportunity to work on methodology and organisational skills, develop an appreciation of research, and demonstrate critical thinking. With the help of a good supervisor, a carefully planned dissertation will develop almost naturally, as long as students follow a few basic rules. This article considers the essentials of writing a dissertation and offers practical guidance to students.

Citation: Lowry M (2017) A practical approach to the process of writing a dissertation. Nursing Times [online]; 113: 11, 36-39.

Author: Mike Lowry is a freelance writer and former nursing academic.

• This article has been double-blind peer reviewed
• Scroll down to read the article or  download a print-friendly PDF here
• Also read our article Making the most of the relationship with your dissertation supervisor

Introduction

Many student nurses feel overwhelmed by the task of writing a dissertation, uncertain how to approach it and doubtful about their chances of success. Few are fully confident that they know how to go about writing the dissertation, manage the supervisory relationship and highlight the essentials of the topic they wish to examine. However, writing a dissertation is a learning process, and need not be such an onerous task if it is carefully planned.

A dissertation can be defined as the report of a process; it may also be seen as a long essay (Biggam, 2015). By comparison, a thesis is more sophisticated and adds to the knowledge in a field, or challenges accepted norms to bring about changes in established understanding. Undergradu-ates and taught master’s degree students are more likely to produce a dissertation, as do many master’s students, whereas students at doctoral level are more likely to write a thesis.

Writing a dissertation equates to developing an understanding of research or systematic enquiry rather than generating new evidence; that is the purpose of a doctoral thesis. While there are various methods according to the nature of the project, the main purpose of a dissertation is to enable students to demonstrate organisational skills, beginning insights into research, and deeper, more critical understanding of their chosen focal topic. However, there are commonalities be-tween a dissertation and thesis, especially around the importance of good supervisory relationships. This article focuses on dissertations, offering a framework for students embarking on – or stuck in the middle of – the process of writing one.

Purpose of a dissertation

Students are asked to write a dissertation to demonstrate their ability to focus on a subject, examine it in detail through systematic enquiry and identify relevant theories. They need to show they are capable of presenting work in an orderly, academic form, clearly demonstrating a working knowledge of their chosen subject. Equally important is the development of various levels of critical insight, depending on the level of degree for which the dissertation is to be submitted – undergraduate or master’s. Box 1 summarises what is expected from you in a dissertation.

Box 1. What your dissertation must demonstrate

• Ability to delve into a subject through systematic enquiry
• Capacity to present written work in an orderly, academic form
• Working knowledge of a subject
• Clarity of purpose, clarity of thought and sophistication of argument
• Ability to focus, plan, organise and work methodically
• Ability to think critically

Getting started

Acording to Wisker (2013) a dissertation is a large piece of work requiring careful planning, good time management, critical thinking, conceptual understanding and adherence to practices for completion. The time taken initially to decide on the topic, approaches and resources will be time well spent.

Many students consider identifying and refining the topic of their dissertation to be one of the most difficult elements in the process. It is fair to say that once the topic has been defined, the rest unrolls like a carpet – as long as you follow a few basic rules (Box 2).

Box 2. Basic rules for writing a dissertation

• Refine the topic, spending time with your supervisor at this stage
• Choose question(s), where relevant, that will likely produce interesting answers
• Consider resources
• Do not hesitate to write in the first person if appropriate
• Put effort and care into every stage of the process
• Justify your choices rather than simply stating them
• Produce a lively and informed discussion
• Follow the format requirements of your institution/supervisor

It is important to avoid chaos and to put effort and care into every stage of the process; the SCARY checklist contains useful advice on what a dissertation should and should not be (Box 3).

Box 3. The SCARY checklist

Your dissertation should be SCARY , in other words:

S traightforward: avoid waffling or overcomplicating ideas; you should, however, demonstrate complexity when discussing findings and literature

C lear and unambiguous: whatever you set out to do must be easily defined and may be trailed for audit

A chievable: within the time frame, limits of the remit, available resources and size limitations

R ecency, ensure that the material you are using to inform the work is current; it might be wise to ensure that all literature dates from the last 10 years or so, depending on the subject matter. Unless older work is seminal, avoid citing it and seek newer material; never use literature just because it is convenient or to hand

Y ours: do not be tempted to claim anyone else’s work as your own

One key piece of advice is that it must be the student’s own work, which means plagiarism must be avoided (Box 4).

Box 4. Plagiarism: do not go there

As Singh and Remenyi (2016) explain, plagiarism is using, in an essay or dissertation, ideas that have been sourced from work published by other authors without acknowledging them. It is academic misconduct to fail to acknowledge the original source, a point echoed by Biggam (2015). In the worst case scenario, plagiarism can lead to the candidate’s work being disallowed.

If you are tempted to use the work of others and claim it for yourself, the advice is simple: do not go there.

The qualities that distinguish an outstanding dissertation from an average one include clarity of purpose, clarity of thought and sophistication of the argument. A first-class submission will be highly organised and focused, clearly demonstrating critical insight, as opposed to a simple, unquestioned description.

Refining the topic

A topic that may seem obvious at the outset can prove to be too vague or too complex. It can be helpful to distil your ideas using a framework such as Lowry’s reflective triangle (Lowry, 2016). Start by making notes on what interests you and why (the ‘case’), then put these into the ‘context’ and consider all the ‘variables’ (Fig 1). For example, you might have an interest in educating patients and want to explore this case in more depth. The context might be your recent experience of a patient being unclear about information on treatment options. Given the importance of patients understanding treatment options so they can make informed decisions, the scenario might appear more complex than it first seemed. You might want to consider the impact on you as a practitioner, who else was involved, what was particularly important and why (the variables). Your reflections will eventually crystallise into a clearer topic and will help you justify your choice.

This part of a dissertation is often seen as the most challenging. Without a clear focus, the rest of the process is likely to stall, so spending time with your supervisor at this stage is invaluable. Go it alone if you will, but it is far better to nurture the supervisory relationship (Kimani, 2014).

Determining the research question

Not all dissertations need a question or questions; some can be purely observational – for example if they use grounded theory. When questions are involved, however, these must be relevant and have a reasonable chance of producing answers.

Unless the subject matter makes it impossible, you should never use a closed question (questions starting with “is”, “are”, “does” or “can”), as the answer will inevitably be yes or no. For example, the answer to the question “Is the process of completing a dissertation arduous?” is almost certainly yes, to an extent, so the question has no real value. A more interesting alternative would be to ask “To what extent is completing a dissertation arduous?”. This offers something to explore and play with to produce a discussion. If you study human society in any shape or form, you will quickly discover that it is seldom binary and rarely fits an ‘either/or’ format.

Considering resources

While refining your topic and research question, you also need to identify and justify the resources you may need, such as help from a statistician, support with transcribing data or advice from experts. Consider whether these resources will be available within the time frame and budget. It would be unwise to seek answers to questions that require disproportionate resources.

Using discursive writing

Students tend to avoid discursive writing, preferring to report rather than to argue, but Kamler and Thomson (2006) emphasise the importance of producing lively and informed discussions. There are opportunities for discussion in various sections of a dissertation, including in the literature review, and it can be used throughout your work, starting with the justification of your choice of topic and methods.

Choosing the right pronoun

It has long been debated whether to use the personal pronoun in academic work; the upshot is that, where justified, there is no reason to avoid writing in the first person. As Kamler and Thomson (2006) put it, “‘I’ is not just a matter of personal choice. There are epistemological/methodological and rhetorical reasons for choosing to use the first person pronoun”. Conversely, trying to shoehorn the personal pronoun (or third person) into your writing when it is unnecessary detracts from the intrinsic quality of the dissertation.

Discuss your preference with your supervisor and be ready to argue your case; the reason for your choice must be clear from the outset. Whatever choice you make – first or third person – must be adhered to throughout, so never alternate between pronouns.

Format and elements of a dissertation

Once you have a general feel for what your dissertation is going to look like, you can get started. The requirements for format and what elements the dissertation should include vary according to institutions and supervisors, so be guided by them. More information on the practicalities of pre-paring a research-based dissertation can be found in Bowen (2005). Generally, all the elements described below are needed in one form or another. At each step, remember to justify your choices as opposed to alternatives, rather than simply stating them and moving on. In terms of style, avoid colloquialisms and discipline your thinking to search for relevant illustrative expressions.

Although the introduction to the dissertation comes first it should be written last, after everything else is complete. Only then will you know exactly what is in your dissertation and how to introduce it.

The background section tells the story of what led you to undertake this work – for example, a recent placement, clinical experience or a presentation in an academic forum. It brings the reader to the table, so to speak.

Aims and objectives

Aims and objectives must be determined at the outset. Have at least one (main) aim and four (contributory) objectives: fewer than four objectives might appear superficial, especially considering that the aim has been deemed interesting enough to merit a study. Objectives must be relevant to the aim(s), and aims and objectives must be clearly stated and explained.

The aim is the overall destination and the objectives are what you need to do to get there; for example, if your aim was to help women to decide what method of contraception to choose, your objectives would include establishing what methods are available, examining the risks and benefits of each, and evaluating different forms of patient information.

Literature review

The literature review – sometimes called literature search or literature enquiry – is crucial. What you have read must be current and relevant, and you need to show that you have examined it critically. If one author’s assertion is contradicted by another, your role is to unravel the arguments and extract meaning from them. The fact that authors have had their work published does not mean they are necessarily right.

Synthesise what you have read, bring the information together and demonstrate how it has contributed to your thinking. From your reading you will develop ideas on how to investigate your topic – including what design best fits your purpose.

Journal articles are generally more focused and detailed than books. Ensure the journals you cite are peer-reviewed: this means its articles have been scrutinised by people with the relevant spe-cialist expertise before being accepted for publication. How many articles or books you include depends on the nature of your work. You are likely to need at least 20 current articles or books to make sense of your topic. Fewer sources may betray an unwillingness to delve into the subject, whereas featuring a huge amount of literature may indicate you have skimmed through it. Be selective and be prepared to justify your choice of included work.

The design – also referred to as approach or method – is the way in which you explore your topic. This section can adopt various presentations but should be clear and succinct, and you should avoid becoming mired in uncertainties. It may feature:

• The epistemological approach – for example qualitative or quantitative, or perhaps eclectic – and why you made that choice;
• The method – for example, if you have chosen a quantitative approach your method could be a survey, while a qualitative approach could be the observation of informants and interpretation of their behaviour with the help of follow-up interviews. These methods are by no means exhaustive and relevant texts on research principles, such as Parahoo (2014); Moule and Aveyard (2016); Ellis (2016) will help you select your method.
• Resources needed for your project;
• Any perceived limitations, such as availability of informants, response rates or equipment, and how these were dealt with.

Ethical approval

Research is awash with ethical challenges; you need to identify them early and show what steps you have taken to address them. Do refer to the theories on ethics that you have used to guide your thinking. As a general rule, undergraduates should not be encouraged to involve patients in their research projects, but they will still need to secure ethical approval if they intend to involve peers, staff or any other informants who could potentially be harmed. Obtaining ethical approval is a long and sometimes complex process that should not be taken lightly.

This section states what sources you derive information from; for example, this could be literature only, different types of literature, individual informants or observations.

Describe what you have done, what worked and what did not. Do not avoid exploring errors in your work, but when doing so, demonstrate how they have contributed to your understanding.

This is the section where you describe what has emerged from your study and what you think needs to be examined further (and why). Do not merely end with a series of superficial comments about what else could be done, but explain what brought you to these views.

The discussion is your chance to shine. It is likely to be longer than most other sections – if not there may be a problem. Start by stating what resulted from your enquiry, and every time you make a statement, ask yourself: so what? It may seem odd, but this self-enquiry will result in deeper insights, which will impress examiners.

If you want to excel, incorporate the findings from the literature review into your discussion and explore whether the findings from your work concur with or differ from the literature. You can further enhance the discussion by integrating fieldwork, findings and ethical challenges. The more fully you engage with the dissertation at this stage, the more sophisticated the end product will be.

Conclusions

The conclusions (or recommendations) need to be brief, draw everything together and suggest what needs to happen next and why.

Your work must include a carefully compiled list of literature cited in your dissertation. Bear in mind that examiners do check references – especially if they are themselves among the authors cited. They may find incomplete reference lists – or, even worse, their published work misquoted or wrongly interpreted – extremely irritating. Refer to your institution’s guidelines for reference protocols.

A dissertation is a means for students to demonstrate they can work methodically and think critically. It is also a powerful vehicle for learning, and one that may well stimulate students to become further involved with systematic enquiry. At the very least, it will engender an appreciation of the process of research.

• Many students feel overwhelmed by the task of writing a dissertation
• A dissertation that has been carefully thought through should develop naturally
• Time taken initially to decide on the topic, questions and methods will be time well spent
• Dissertations must be clear, organised and focused, and demonstrate critical insight
• Plagiarism is academic misconduct and must be avoided

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I am a 3rd year student nurse embarking on my dissertation so found this article interesting. It is true, most students do feel nervous and overwhelmed at the thought of writing a dissertation especially on top of other assignments and being in practice.

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Nursing Dissertation Ideas That Will Lead You to a Perfect Topic

#i',$content, -1); --> table of contents unique nursing dissertation topics to explore what’s a nursing dissertation and steps to write it nursing education dissertation topics: how to choose the right one list of the best dissertation topics nursing of the year some great phd nursing dissertation ideas unique nursing dissertation topics to explore.

Choosing a good topic for your dissertation in nursing is an important step in ensuring the overall success of your research project. This task may seem easy at first, but once you are at it, it can prove much trickier, primarily because it might take multiple brainstorms, drafts, and reviews for your topic to shine. But worry not — our nursing dissertation help service has got you covered!

To help you get started, we’ve developed a list of the latest nursing dissertation topics that you can use just as they are or simply to get inspiration for your dissertation project. We’ll come to those in a moment, but let’s find out what is a nursing dissertation first!

What’s a Nursing Dissertation and Steps to Write It

• Admission/Application Essay
• Admission Editing
• Admission Proofreading
• Annotated Bibliography
• Argumentative essay
• Article paraphrasing
• Article review
• Book Report/Review
• Business plan
• Capstone Project
• Concept map
• Concept paper
• Conference Paper
• Critical review
• Custom List of Topics
• Data analysis
• Defence Presentation
• Discussion Post
• Dissertation
• Dissertation Chapter - Abstract
• Dissertation Chapter - Discussion
• Dissertation Chapter - Introduction Chapter
• Dissertation Chapter - Literature Review
• Dissertation Chapter - Methodology
• Dissertation Chapter - Results
• Dissertation revision
• Evidence-based practice paper
• Exam Answers
• Grant proposal
• Interview essay
• Letter of recommendation
• Literature review
• Literature review outline
• Marketing plan
• Math Problem
• Multiple Choice Questions
• Non-word assignment
• Nursing care plan
• Nursing teaching plan
• Paraphrasing
• Personal Statement
• PICO/PICOT Questions
• PowerPoint Presentation Plain
• PowerPoint Presentation with Speaker Notes
• Problem solution
• Proofreading
• Quality improvement project
• Reaction paper
• Reflection paper
• Reflective Journal
• Research Paper
• Research Proposal
• Retyping (PDF / PNG / Handwriting to Word)
• Scholarship Essay
• Scoping review
• Shadow health assessment
• Statistical Analysis
• Statistics Project
• Swot-analysis
• Systematic review
• Thesis chapter - Background
• Thesis chapter - Conclusion & future works
• Thesis chapter - Implementation
• Thesis chapter - Introduction
• Thesis chapter - Other (not listed above)
• Thesis chapter - Results & evaluation
• Thesis chapter - Theory & problem statement
• Thesis literature review
• Thesis Proposal
• Thesis revision
• Topic Suggestion
• Topic Suggestion + Summary + References

A nursing dissertation is a research paper usually required as part of a PhD degree program. It’s a comprehensive and original work that aims to explore a specific topic in nursing and demonstrates your ability to investigate, analyze information and present findings.

Here’s how to write a nursing dissertation:

• Choose a relevant dissertation topic.
• Write a catchy introduction.
• Collect data from reliable sources.
• Critically evaluate the gathered information.
• Perform a literature review.
• Outline the significance of your project.
• Audit and inspect employing clinical guidelines.
• Describe the methodology used.
• Reflect on outcomes.
• Present recommendations for future research or practice.
• Format your project and create a references list.
• Structure and proofread the final draft.

Now that you know the fundamentals, let’s find out how to choose a good topic and dive into the best nursing education dissertation topics that will stay relevant in 2024.

Nursing Education Dissertation Topics: How to Choose the Right One?

If you’re struggling to come up with appropriate dissertation topics nursing, try taking the following steps:

• Understand the objective of your project.
• Make a list of topics you are familiar with or genuinely passionate about exploring.
• Look into the current trends, ongoing debates, or innovations in the field for additional inspiration.
• Think about what specific aspects of the subject you want your paper to focus on.
• Define why these aspects are relevant and important.
• Do preliminary research to determine the availability of credible sources to back up your arguments.
• Think about how you’ll be presenting your findings.
• Narrow down your topic to a specific research question that’s manageable and can be answered.

Lastly, our experts recommend choosing a topic that aligns with your career goals or areas you wish to specialize in. This way, you can turn a tedious writing process into a motivational journey with perspectives for future research.

List of the Best Dissertation Topics Nursing of the Year

For your convenience, we’ve organized dissertation nursing topic ideas into eight distinct thematic categories.

Child Health Dissertation Topics

• How medical progress benefits patients with innate disabilities.
• Physical limitations and the impact of timely medication.
• The role of nurses in neonatal intensive care units.
• Evaluation of mothers’ needs when caring for children aged 2 to 5.
• The role of hospitals in the treatment of children’s psychiatric diseases.
• Techniques for improving pediatric cancer treatment.
• Childhood asthma diagnostics and treatment options.
• Identifying developmental delays in Down syndrome children.
• Applying Piaget’s theory to the cognitive development of healthy children.
• A training program for pediatric nurses to support emergency patients.

Clinical Care Dissertation Topics

• Should visitors be allowed in the intensive care unit?
• Analyzing the management plans for patients with dementia.
• Examining the impact of timing in critical patient nursing care.
• Considerations for ICU patients’ treatment and the risks of pressure injury.
• An overview of the critical nursing analysis literature from the last ten years.
• What are the challenges that the critical care nursing system faces?
• Medical treatment research in a high-tech environment.
• What primary challenges do nurses face in intensive care units?
• Do nurses ever have problems with their patients? If so, how do they deal with those problems?
• A study of the demand for healthcare facilities among sick patients on ventilators.

Adult Nursing Dissertation Topics

• What challenges do adult nursing professors in the United States face?
• The influence of social media on adult nursing students.
• Could online nursing studies help overcome the nurse shortage?
• Investigation of sustainability issues in adult nursing.
• Risk management and needs assessment in healthcare.
• Analysis of the impact of social media on nursing careers.
• What kind of treatment should adult nurses provide to dementia patients?
• Examination of the level of stress faced by emergency room nurses.
• Should adult nurses stay up-to-date on emerging trends in nursing?
• Investigation of the transition from hospital to outpatient settings.

Evidence-Based Practice Dissertation Topics

• Ways of choosing the right IV catheter size.
• NPO status and hypoglycemia rates.
• Nonpharmacologic methods of pain relief.
• Should hospitalized patients be given pain relievers?
• Ways of reducing catheter-acquired urinary tract infections (CAUTIs).
• Nursing professionals’ misconceptions about evidence-based practice.
• Evidence-based nursing practice rating systems.
• The evidence-based practice manual for nurses.
• What is the effect of visitation hours on patient outcomes?
• Fall prevention in people with acute dementia.

Palliative Care Dissertation Topics

• Palliative care for patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Models of palliative care delivery for patients with cancer.
• The benefits of perinatal hospice care.
• Home-based palliative care for Renal disease patients.
• Moral position on palliative care for terminal patients.
• The role of volunteers in palliative medicine.
• Initial palliative care for heart failure.
• Evidence-based palliative care practice.
• The role of the advanced practice nurse in palliative care.
• Psychosocial screening and assessment in palliative nursing.

Mental Health Dissertation Topics

• Investigation of the correlation between dopamine levels and autism.
• Benefits of antipsychotic medicine for reducing delirium.
• Chemical stimulants used in ADHD treatments.
• Identification of bipolar disorder and associated risk factors.
• Alzheimer’s disease and its connection to the environment.
• The effect of social media on mental health.
• The genetic component of bipolar disorder.
• Methods for assisting stroke victims in regaining motor skills.
• Investigation of the relationship between ADHD and screen time.
• Strategies helping to prevent post-traumatic stress disorder.

Emergency Care Dissertation Topics

• The impact of delays in emergency care.
• How does overcrowding in emergency departments impact patients with stroke?
• The importance of having a trauma team in the emergency department.
• Creating cycles for emergency department physicians.
• The effects of inadequate staffing in the emergency room.
• Should patients be allowed to visit the emergency room to treat a fever of unknown nature?
• Strategies to improve the level of healthcare in emergency rooms.
• Ways to decrease the frequency of angry outbursts in the emergency room.
• Ethical dilemmas faced by emergency department nurses.
• The importance of having emergency rooms for patients with allergic reactions.

Environmental Health Dissertation Topics

• Impact of climate change on food contamination with mycotoxins.
• Airborne influenza virus detection strategies employing bioaerosol collection.
• Homicide and suicide trends among farmers and other workers in the field.
• The influence of loudness on the employees of food courts in college towns.
• Investigation of environmental risks to the health of socially disadvantaged groups.

Now, let’s move on to some of the most promising nursing dissertation ideas for Ph.D. students and dissertation topics community health nursing.

Some Great PhD Nursing Dissertation Ideas

If you’re writing a PhD dissertation , the topic ideas below will definitely come in handy!

• Steps to prevent major health problems in patients with increased work-related stress.
• The latest public health initiatives to reduce childhood obesity.
• The significance and effects of workplace safety in medical clinics.
• Investigation of the impact of AIDS on modern society.
• Increasing awareness of the issues and risks involved with the clinical management of elderly patients in ICU.
• The role of drug addiction and psychological treatment in prisons.
• Leading causes of cerebrovascular accidents that injure adult brain cells.
• The role of WHO policies and methodologies in understanding child development.
• Treatment strategies and post-treatment care for patients suffering from acute and chronic pain.
• Adaptive approach to patient care in adult critical care units.

Topics Related to Community Health

• Senior outpatient care and community services.
• The importance of community nursing in increasing the quality of adult patients’ lives.
• The impact of existing welfare theories and practices on adult patients.
• The role of community nursing practice in health promotion.
• Quality of seniors’ life: ethical behavior and residential care homes.

We hope these dissertation topics in nursing will inspire you to write an excellent dissertation worthy of the professor’s praise. Thanks for reading, and good luck with your paper! Should you need nursing writing help , NursingPaper is at your service 24/7!

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The Impact of Sexual Violence on Student’s Academic and University Experiences: A Qualitative Study , Shelby Lacey

Registered Nurse Retention in Long Term Care: A Qualitative Exploration , Brandi Lynne Livingstone

Nurses’ Experience of Family-Centered Rounds in the Intensive Care U , Kaitlyn Sheehan

Nurses’ Experience of Family-Centered Rounds in the Intensive Care Unit , Kaitlyn Sheehan

Investigating the Physical, Psychological, and Situational Factors Affecting Subjective Sleep Quality After Lung Transplantation , Jane Simanovski Peakovic

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

The Experience of Transitioning for the Transgender Person: An Appreciative Inquiry Approach to Advance Gender Affirming Care , Shelley Evans

Exploring BScN Recent Graduates’ Perceived Readiness to Practice , Robyn Marie Lapuz

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Ontario’s Registered Nurses Knowledge, Comfort, and Self-Efficacy Surrounding Patient Health Literacy (HL) Assessments: An Observational Mixed Method, Cross-Sectional Study , Sheena A. Gagnier

Internationally educated nurse potential contributions to culturally safe advance care planning (ACP) practices and policy in Ontario: An interpretive descriptive qualitative study , Shereen Jonathan

Nursing Clinical Instructors’ Perceived Supports and Barriers to Reporting Medication Errors, Near Misses, and Discovered Errors , Karly Mendler

Nurse Practitioner Opioid Prescribing and Safety Measure Utilization Patterns in Ontario: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Study , Gina Pittman

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

E-Professionalism in Undergraduate Nursing Students , Jessica Chu

How do Palliative Care Registered Nurses Apply Concepts of Ethical Decision-Making When Caring for Patients who Request Medical Assistance in Dying? An Interpretive Descriptive Qualitative Study , Lauren Kopchek

An Examination of the Relationships between Safer Sex Education and Intentions to Practice Safer Sex in Undergraduate Students: A Cross-Sectional Study , Mandy SmithGrant

Vaccine Knowledge and Vaccine Attitudes of Undergraduate Nursing Students , Caitlyn Wilpstra

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Exploring Concepts of Compassion Fatigue Among Baccalaureate Nursing Students , Lisa Marie Hamilton

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Exploring Clinical Instructors’ Perceptions of Competencies Required for Their Role in a Baccalaureate Nursing Program , Natalie Anne Bownes

Exploring Effect Moderation In Our Understanding of Hand Hygiene Predictors , Amanda Emily McEwen

Student Nurses’ Perception of Sleep Quality , Nicole Wall

Exploring the Impact of Patient Perceptions of Health Care Provider Cultural Competence on Health-related Quality of Life among an Immigrant Population , Afef Zghal

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Investigating Predictors of Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy , Kathryn Corby

Camp Nursing As Clinical Placements For Undergraduate Nursing Students , Shelley Evans

The Effects of Introducing Prenatal Breastfeeding Education in the Obstetricians' Waiting Rooms , Donna Manlongat

Exploring the Factors Associated with Non-Urgent Emergency Department Utilization by Individuals with Mental Illness in Southwestern Ontario , Fabrice Immanuel Mowbray

Exploration of Fatigue in Fourth-Year Nursing Students , Kelly Riccardi

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

MEDICATION, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND PATIENT FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION DELIVERY TIMES , Catherine F. Medved

An Ethnographic Study of Pre-Graduate, Precepted Nursing Student Clinical Placements in Long-Term Care Homes , Marie Frances Meloche

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Exploring Factors Associated with Non-Urgent Emergency Department Visits and Hospital Admissions for Diabetes Related Problems in Three Community Based Hospitals in Southwestern Ontario , Tomasina Malott

INFLUENCE OF VALUES AND EXPECTATIONS OF A HEALTHY WORK ENVIRONMENT ON MIGRATION INTENTIONS OF NURSE GRADUATES IN A CANADIAN BORDER CITY , LE XIN

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Political Advocacy: Beliefs and Practices of Registered Nurses , Crystal D. Avolio

Exploring Self-Perceived Hand Hygiene Practices among Undergraduate Nursing Students , Anne Foote

Exploration of Fatigue in Second Year Nursing Students , Michelle Lynn Groundwater

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Emergency Department Triage Acuity Assignment in Patients with Sepsis at an Academic Tertiary Care Centre: Predictors and Outcomes , Leon Daniel Petruniak

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Exploring the Health Issues of Hidden Homeless IV Drug users in a Mid-Sized Canadian Community. , Kimberley Dobson

Understanding the relation between adverse events, patient characteristics, and risk factors among home care patients , Kimberly Anne Miller

Determinants of Hand Hygiene among Registered Nurses Caring for Critically Ill Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit , Candace Ryan

Exploring Health and Social Exclusion Within Hidden Homeless , Josephine Watson

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Predictors of Women's Choices in Breastfeeding Initiation and Exclusivity at Six Months , Maureen Colledge

Exploring Predictors of Influenza Vaccination Among Hospital Based Nurses , Theresa Marentette

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

The effect of exercise experience on imagery use, efficacy beliefs, and body image among females. , Lisa M. Cooke

Exploring the psychometric properties of the newly-developed Undergraduate Nursing Student Academic Satisfaction Scale , Susan Dennison

The nurse's spirit: The lived experience of spirituality for nurses who work in palliative care settings , Jayne Rajaratnam

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Impact of mentoring on job satisfaction and retention , Kristy Bialkowski

The Effects of Bullying Behaviours on Student Nurses in the Clinical Setting , Colette Clarke

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Measuring integration in adults with chronic non-malignant pain (CNP) , Kathryn Deshaies

The impact of cognitive dysfunction upon the non-metastatic colorectal cancer patient's psychosocial adjustment and quality of life , Jacqueline Galica

Examining the physiological and psychological impact of smoking cessation on patients with acute myocardial infarction , Kathryn A. Pfaff

Knowledge of bioterrorism management amongst emergency department clinicians , Steven Douglas Pirie

A comparison of manual patient transfer training in an academic and clinical environment. , Paula Marguerite van Wyk

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Chinese parents' knowledge and use of vehicle restraint for their children. , Jianhua Ren

Alternative coping strategies and decision delay in seeking care for acute myocardial infarction. , Mihaela Zegrean

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

A longitudinal study of the effectiveness of a multimedia education program to enhance parents knowledge of children's safety in vehicles. , Sarah E. Harvey

Theses/Dissertations from 2005 2005

The effectiveness of an intervention to improve vehicle safety for children. , Lisa Anne High

Examining the impact of chest tube-related factors on the risk of nosocomial infections in a community based hospital. , Margaret M. (Peggy) Oldfield

An examination of the relationship between perceived spousal social support and mood state of primiparous postpartum women, and the subsequent effect on maternal role identity. , Jane Reiha

Theses/Dissertations from 2003 2003

Health promotion initiative for booster seats: A school-based educational intervention. , Jody Ann. McGinnis

Vehicle restraint of the young child. , Annette Marie. Scott

Theses/Dissertations from 2002 2002

Infant sleep position: Nurses' awareness and practice of the Canadian Joint Statement recommendation. , Vanessa. Burkoski

Emergency department nurses knowledge of and attitudes toward parasuicide. , Kim M. Watson

Theses/Dissertations from 2001 2001

Adaptation to breast cancer following an autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplant: A prospective study. , Christina Michelle. Dales

Management of pain during mechanical ventilation weaning: The nature of nurse decision-making. , Christina Jean. Hurlock-Chorostecki

Theses/Dissertations from 2000 2000

A phenomenologic inquiry into adolescent girls' personal experience with Baby Think It Over(TM). , Ann. Malinowski

Evaluation of comfort levels and complication rates as determined by peripheral intravenous catheter sites. , Anne Marie. Marsigliese

Theses/Dissertations from 1998 1998

An examination of the effects of family demands and resources on adaptation in families of children with diabetes. , Mary Teresa Lapos. Chick

Theses/Dissertations from 1997 1997

An examination of the differences in self-concept, self-esteem, and locus of control in adolescent female smokers and nonsmokers. , Kathryn Janet. Foley

An exploration of the HIV/AIDS health promotion activities of public health nurses with female clients (Immune deficiency). , Susan Jean. Kocela

Theses/Dissertations from 1983 1983

The effect of bi-modality on the functional adaptability of older adults. , Simon Davis

Theses/Dissertations from 1971 1971

Involuntary nonconformity as a construct in social stress and learning. , Roger Charles Mannell

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Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

What is a nursing research paper.

• What They Include
• Choosing a Topic
• Best Nursing Research Topics
• Research Paper Writing Tips

Writing a research paper is a massive task that involves careful organization, critical analysis, and a lot of time. Some nursing students are natural writers, while others struggle to select a nursing research topic, let alone write about it.

If you're a nursing student who dreads writing research papers, this article may help ease your anxiety. We'll cover everything you need to know about writing nursing school research papers and the top topics for nursing research.  

Continue reading to make your paper-writing jitters a thing of the past.

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A nursing research paper is a work of academic writing composed by a nurse or nursing student. The paper may present information on a specific topic or answer a question.

During LPN/LVN and RN programs, most papers you write focus on learning to use research databases, evaluate appropriate resources, and format your writing with APA style. You'll then synthesize your research information to answer a question or analyze a topic.

BSN , MSN , Ph.D., and DNP programs also write nursing research papers. Students in these programs may also participate in conducting original research studies.

Writing papers during your academic program improves and develops many skills, including the ability to:

• Select nursing topics for research
• Conduct effective research
• Analyze published academic literature
• Format and cite sources
• Synthesize data
• Organize and articulate findings

About Nursing Research Papers

When do nursing students write research papers.

You may need to write a research paper for any of the nursing courses you take. Research papers help develop critical thinking and communication skills. They allow you to learn how to conduct research and critically review publications.

That said, not every class will require in-depth, 10-20-page papers. The more advanced your degree path, the more you can expect to write and conduct research. If you're in an associate or bachelor's program, you'll probably write a few papers each semester or term.

Do Nursing Students Conduct Original Research?

Most of the time, you won't be designing, conducting, and evaluating new research. Instead, your projects will focus on learning the research process and the scientific method. You'll achieve these objectives by evaluating existing nursing literature and sources and defending a thesis.

However, many nursing faculty members do conduct original research. So, you may get opportunities to participate in, and publish, research articles.

Example Research Project Scenario:

In your maternal child nursing class, the professor assigns the class a research paper regarding developmentally appropriate nursing interventions for the pediatric population. While that may sound specific, you have almost endless opportunities to narrow down the focus of your writing. 

You could choose pain intervention measures in toddlers. Conversely, you can research the effects of prolonged hospitalization on adolescents' social-emotional development.

What Does a Nursing Research Paper Include?

Your professor should provide a thorough guideline of the scope of the paper. In general, an undergraduate nursing research paper will consist of:

Introduction : A brief overview of the research question/thesis statement your paper will discuss. You can include why the topic is relevant.

Body : This section presents your research findings and allows you to synthesize the information and data you collected. You'll have a chance to articulate your evaluation and answer your research question. The length of this section depends on your assignment.

Conclusion : A brief review of the information and analysis you presented throughout the body of the paper. This section is a recap of your paper and another chance to reassert your thesis.

The best advice is to follow your instructor's rubric and guidelines. Remember to ask for help whenever needed, and avoid overcomplicating the assignment!

How to Choose a Nursing Research Topic

The sheer volume of prospective nursing research topics can become overwhelming for students. Additionally, you may get the misconception that all the 'good' research ideas are exhausted. However, a personal approach may help you narrow down a research topic and find a unique angle.

Writing your research paper about a topic you value or connect with makes the task easier. Additionally, you should consider the material's breadth. Topics with plenty of existing literature will make developing a research question and thesis smoother.

Finally, feel free to shift gears if necessary, especially if you're still early in the research process. If you start down one path and have trouble finding published information, ask your professor if you can choose another topic.

The Best Research Topics for Nursing Students

You have endless subject choices for nursing research papers. This non-exhaustive list just scratches the surface of some of the best nursing research topics.

1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics

• Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties.
• Discuss the impact of evidence-based respiratory interventions on patient outcomes in critical care settings.
• Explore the effectiveness of pain management protocols in pediatric patients.

2. Community Health Nursing Research Topics

• Assess the impact of nurse-led diabetes education in Type II Diabetics.
• Analyze the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to healthcare services.

3. Nurse Education Research Topics

• Review the effectiveness of simulation-based learning to improve nursing students' clinical skills.
• Identify methods that best prepare pre-licensure students for clinical practice.
• Investigate factors that influence nurses to pursue advanced degrees.
• Evaluate education methods that enhance cultural competence among nurses.
• Describe the role of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and burnout among nurses.

4. Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

• Explore patient outcomes related to nurse staffing levels in acute behavioral health settings.
• Assess the effectiveness of mental health education among emergency room nurses .
• Explore de-escalation techniques that result in improved patient outcomes.
• Review the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in improving patient outcomes.

5. Pediatric Nursing Research Topics

• Assess the impact of parental involvement in pediatric asthma treatment adherence.
• Explore challenges related to chronic illness management in pediatric patients.
• Review the role of play therapy and other therapeutic interventions that alleviate anxiety among hospitalized children.

6. The Nursing Profession Research Topics

• Analyze the effects of short staffing on nurse burnout .
• Evaluate factors that facilitate resiliency among nursing professionals.
• Examine predictors of nurse dissatisfaction and burnout.
• Posit how nursing theories influence modern nursing practice.

Tips for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

The best nursing research advice we can provide is to follow your professor's rubric and instructions. However, here are a few study tips for nursing students to make paper writing less painful:

Avoid procrastination: Everyone says it, but few follow this advice. You can significantly lower your stress levels if you avoid procrastinating and start working on your project immediately.

Plan Ahead: Break down the writing process into smaller sections, especially if it seems overwhelming. Give yourself time for each step in the process.

Research: Use your resources and ask for help from the librarian or instructor. The rest should come together quickly once you find high-quality studies to analyze.

Outline: Create an outline to help you organize your thoughts. Then, you can plug in information throughout the research process. 

Clear Language: Use plain language as much as possible to get your point across. Jargon is inevitable when writing academic nursing papers, but keep it to a minimum.

Cite Properly: Accurately cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Nursing research papers will almost always implement APA style. Check out the resources below for some excellent reference management options.

Revise and Edit: Once you finish your first draft, put it away for one to two hours or, preferably, a whole day. Once you've placed some space between you and your paper, read through and edit for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Reading your essay out loud is an excellent way to check for the 'flow' of the paper.

Helpful Nursing Research Writing Resources:

Purdue OWL (Online writing lab) has a robust APA guide covering everything you need about APA style and rules.

Grammarly helps you edit grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Upgrading to a paid plan will get you plagiarism detection, formatting, and engagement suggestions. This tool is excellent to help you simplify complicated sentences.

Mendeley is a free reference management software. It stores, organizes, and cites references. It has a Microsoft plug-in that inserts and correctly formats APA citations.

Don't let nursing research papers scare you away from starting nursing school or furthering your education. Their purpose is to develop skills you'll need to be an effective nurse: critical thinking, communication, and the ability to review published information critically.

Choose a great topic and follow your teacher's instructions; you'll finish that paper in no time.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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Home > FACULTIES > Nursing > NURSING-ETD

Nursing Theses and Dissertations

This collection contains theses and dissertations from the Department of Nursing, collected from the Scholarship@Western Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Theses/Dissertations from 2024 2024

Sex Differences in Coping Strategies, Infertility-Related Stress, and Predictors of Infertility-Related Stress among Saudi Men and Women Attending Infertility Clinics , Hayat Abdullah Algamadi

A grounded Theory Investigation of Self-Identified Female Students' Mental Health Perception, Mental Health Factors, and Help-Seeking Behaviour , Laila Awwadh Alzaidi

Exploring Parental Vaccine Decision Making: A Mixed Methods Study , Sarah A. Ashfield

The Experience of Postpartum Care Practices among Parent and Healthcare Providers in Canada: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis , Andrea Atkinson

Exploring Student Experiences of Interprofessional Simulation Education , Jonathan Barrios

The Housing Conditions and Health Experiences of Caribbean Migrant Agricultural Workers: A Secondary Analysis , Elizabeth Diedrick

Developing Therapeutic Relationships in the Community Setting with Clients Experiencing Marginalization , Danielle Knipping

HARNESSING DATA SCIENCE IN HOMECARE TO ANTICIPATE CARE FOR “PERSONS WITH AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS” (PALS) , Sally E. Remus

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Nurse-Hero Discussion on Twitter: A Social Network Analysis and Qualitative Content Analysis , Amna Ali

The impact of Authentic Leadership, Structural Empowerment, Psychological Empowerment, Interpersonal Conflict, and Job Satisfaction on Turnover Intention among Early Career Nurses in Saudi Arabia. , Ohood Ali Alkaabi miss

The Process of Art Creation Among Mothers from Ontario Who Have Experienced Gender-Based Violence , Madison L. Broadbent

Exploring How Mothers With A History Of Intimate Partner Violence Experienced The COVID-19 Pandemic , Emma Jane Butler

Nurse-Assisted Injection: Perceptions of Dependent Injectors in Ontario, Canada , Emelia C. Cormack

Exploring the Role of the Nurse in Supporting Breastfeeding among Indigenous Women in Canada: A Scoping Review of the Literature , Lindsey Corrigan

The Experiences of Clinical Placement Belonging Among Nursing Students with Racially and Ethnically Minoritized Identities: An Interpretive Descriptive Study , Connor J. Gould

Nurses’ and Midwives’ Lived Experiences as Mentees in a Clinical Mentorship Program in Rwanda: An Interpretive Phenomenological Study , Yvonne Kasine 2399948

Uncovering the Experience of Determining Readiness to Increase Self-Management Responsibility in Canadian Adolescents Living with Type 1 Diabetes , Kelly A. Kennedy

Exploring Clinical Reasoning in Nursing Through A Serious Gaming-Enabled Digital Simulation , Stephanie Kennedy Miss

The Development, Refinement, Implementation, and Impact of a Nurse-Led Health Coaching Self-Care Management Intervention for Heart Failure , Maureen Leyser

Relational Variables Impacting the Healthcare Team , Linda J. MacDougall Ms

Exploring Family Members’ Beliefs and Experiences of Supporting Relatives with Substance Use and Misuse within Black Communities , Esther N. Monari

An Exploration of the Culturally-Rooted Meaning and Consequences of Unintended Adolescent Pregnancy in Rwanda: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective , Jean Pierre Ndayisenga

Exploring how the Perinatal Services of Primary Health Care Settings in Rwanda Support Adolescent Mothers to Inform the Delivery of Trauma- and Violence-Informed Care: An Interpretive Description , Aimable NKURUNZIZA

Bridging the Gap: Canadian Health Care Providers Perspectives' of Harm Reduction and Substance Use Education in Hospital , Leanne Scott

Intimate Partner Violence, Social Support, Mastery, and Mental Health , Alice Pearl Sedziafa

A Picture of Spirituality in Youth Living with Bipolar Disorder , Michelle S. Solomon

Decentering Whiteness in Nursing Education: The Pitfalls, Tensions, and Opportunities , Ivy Tran

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Exploring Health Inequities: Head Injuries in People Experiencing Homelessness , Emily M. Angus

Women’s Priorities and Actions Mothering in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence , Sharon Broughton

Toward Understanding Culturally Safe Health Care for Transgender People: A Scoping Review of Health Care Provider Knowledge , Terrie Butler-Foster

Forming Authentic and Purposeful Relationships with Racialized Communities from an Anti-Oppressive Lens: A Framework for African, Caribbean, and Black Communities , Jaimeson R. Canie

Clinical Virtual Simulation: A Qualitative Usability Study , Samantha Beatrice Cooke

Predictors and Outcomes of Patient Stigma Perception Appraisal: Developing and Testing of a Dynamic Stigma Model of Mental Illness , Sebastian Kwadwo Gyamfi

Women’s Experiences of Accessing Breastfeeding and Perinatal Health Support in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence: An Interpretive Description Study , Samantha Larose

"Pain is What the Patient Says it is": A Secondary Analysis of Nurses’ Reflections on the Term Pain Catastrophizing , Riana Longo

An Exploration of Non-Urgent Emergency Department Use from the Patient and Health Care Professional Perspective , Amanda McIntyre

Self-management Experience of Nurses Living with Migraine: A Qualitative Study , Marionette Ngole Dione

Host Organizations' Perspectives of Partnered Global Study-Abroad Programs , Jessica C. Pop

The Effect of Interprofessional Conflict Resolution on Interprofessional Collaborative Practice among Health Care Provider Teams in Hospitals , Sibylle Ugirase

Teaching Family Planning in Nursing and Midwifery Schools: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study , Pauline Uwajeneza

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Syrian Refugee Women's Experiences with the Ontario Health Care System: A Critical Ethnography Study , Areej Al-Hamad

The Influence of Authentic Leadership on Nurses’ Turnover Intentions and Satisfaction with Quality of Care in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study , Bayan Alilyyani

Understanding the Current State of Health Information Exchange in Long-Term Care Homes , Kendra R. Cotton

Relationships among Interactional and Organizational Factors with Healthcare Provider Outcomes Post-Implementation of an Interprofessional Model of Patient Care , Wendy L. Ellis

Chronic Disease Management in a Nurse Practitioner Led Clinic: An Interpretive Description Study , Natalie Floriancic

Understanding the Lived Experience of Health Through the Exploration of Well-being of Women with Multiple Sclerosis in Southwestern Ontario , Jennifer Howard

"Healthcare Heroes" - The Change in Perceptions of Nurses' Roles During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Critical Discourse Analysis , Stephanie Jones

The Discursive Construction of Substance Use and Harm Reduction in Canadian Health Policy , Sibel Kusdemir

Nurses' and Nurse Educators' Experiences of a Pediatric Nursing Continuing Professional Development program in Rwanda , Amy K. Olson

Health Providers Perspectives on the Access and Use of Formal Health and Social Services by Stroke Caregivers , Hannah Pollock

The Effect of Authentic Leadership and New Graduate Support on New Graduate Nurses' Job Satisfaction , Stephanie H. Prtenjaca

Reddit and Nursing During Covid-19: A Summative Content Analysis , Julia C. Savin

Being a Child Bride in Nigeria: A Feminist Narrative Inquiry , Olubukola Foluke Sonibare

New Graduate Nurses’ Experiences of Engaging in a Leadership Role in Hospital Settings During the COVID-19 Pandemic , Justine Jeanelle Ting

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Interprofessional Role Clarification Among Licensed Health Care Practitioners in Rural and Smaller Community Hospitals , Dianne E. Allen

Exploring Nursing Student Use of Instagram: Selfies and Soliloquies and #becominganurse with Evolving Digital Footprints , Kingsley KS Au

The Association Between Intimate Partner Violence and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and Symptoms Among Adult Women: Systematic Review , Ohud Shawqi Banjar

Exploring the Relationships Among New Graduate Nurses’ Structural Empowerment, Psychological Empowerment, Work Engagement, and Clinical Nurse Educator Leadership in Acute Care Settings , Carly Blair

Caring Revisited: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis on the Association of Caring with the Profession of Nursing , Margot Boulton

Optimization of Simulated Electronic Medication Administration for Safe Management During Nursing Education , Laura Brennan

Leader Empowering Behaviour as a Predictor of Nurse and Patient Outcomes , Karen Cziraki

The Effect of Authentic Leadership on New Graduate Nurses’ Organizational Identification, Trust in the Manager, Patient Safety Climate, and Willingness to Report Errors , Fatmah Fallatah

Unit Managers’ Authentic Leadership, Staff Nurses’ Work Attitudes and Behaviours, and Outcomes of Care: A Structural Equation Model , Lisa M. Giallonardo

Developing and Evaluating the Integrated Addiction Recovery Model for the Persons' Engagement and Retention in the Recovery Process Among Clinical Populations from Rwanda , Boniface Harerimana

Developing Competencies for Public Policy Advocacy: A Comparative Case Analysis , Amy L. Lewis

Prematurity, Socioeconomic Status, And Childhood Asthma: A Canadian Cohort Study , Crystal P. McLeod

Patient Roles within Interprofessional Collaborative Patient-Centred Care Teams: The Patient and Health Care Provider Perspectives , Kateryna Metersky

Nurses' and Midwives' Experiences as Mentors in a Clinical Mentorship Program in Rwanda , Marie Chantal Murekatete

Examining the Impact of Social Media on Youth Self-Perceived Mental Health , Chantal Singh

Exploring Mental Health, Physical Health, and Affective Commitment in Acute Care Oncology Nurses in Ontario , Lesley M. Smith

Women’s Experience of Obtaining Health and Social Services following Intimate Partner Violence: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Relationships in Rural Communities , Emily E. Soares

Values, Assumptions, Behaviours, and Practices Influencing the Professional Development of Nursing Students Within Acute Care Practice Environments in Rwanda: A Focused Ethnographic Study , Benoite Umubyeyi

A study of job satisfaction and turnover intention among acute care nurses working in rural and urban settings , Yasin Yasin

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Understanding the Lived Experiences of Saudi Students Enrolled in Canadian Graduate Nursing Programs , Aisha Namshan Aldawsari

Pathways to Homelessness: Exploring the Mental Health Experiences of Refugees Experiencing Homelessness in Canada , Bridget Annor

Breastfeeding Experiences of African Migrant Women in Developed Countries: A Qualitative Systematic Review. , Odinaka Ogoegbunam Anunike

Sociocultural Factors Affecting Mental Health Service Utilization by African Newcomer Women Following Childbirth in Canada , Deborah Baiden

Registered Nurses’ Perceptions of the Electronic Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale in a Community Hospital , Andrea de Jong

New Graduate Nurses: Relationships among Sex, Empowerment, Workplace Bullying, and Job Turnover Intention , Aaron L. Favaro

Women’s Experiences Receiving Humanitarian Aid , Aden M. Hamza

Registered Nurses' Intention To Use Electronic Documentation Systems: A Mixed Methods Study , Sarah Ibrahim

Exploring the Mental Health Care Experiences of Youth Transitioning from Paediatric to Adult Psychiatric Services Using the Photovoice Method: A Participatory Analysis of the PhotoSTREAM Project , Brianna Jackson

An exploration of how persons requiring hemodialysis treatment explain the ways in which access to transportation for such treatment influences their overall health. , Navpreet Kamboj

Exploring the Characteristics and Behaviours of Nurses Who Have Attained Microcelebrity Status on Instagram , Hanna Kerr

Collaborative Self-Management and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Integrating Patient Needs into an Educational Program for Nurses , Loretta G. McCormick RN (EC)

Assessing the Impact of Mentorship on Rwandan Nurses’ and Midwives’ Knowledge and Self-Efficacy in Managing Postpartum Hemorrhage , Marie Grace Sandra Musabwasoni

Nurse and Midwife Educators' Experiences of Translating Teaching Methodology Knowledge into Practice in Rwanda , Jean Pierre Ndayisenga

Exploration of Knowledge and Skills Development among Community Health Workers in Rwanda , Schadrack Ngabonziza

Assessing Changes in Knowledge about and Self-efficacy for Neonatal Resuscitation Among Rwandan Nurses and Midwives after a Mentorship Process , Gerard Nyiringango

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Lived Experience of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among Saudi Women: Interpretive Phenomenological Study , Hayat Abdullah Algamadi

Relationships Among Authentic Leadership, Manager Incivility and Trust in the Manager , Ohood Ali Alkaabi

Gender and Experiences of Family Homelessness , Fawziah Almalki

The Influence of Authentic Leadership on Fourth-Year Nursing Students' Experience of Workplace Bullying and Withdrawal Intentions , Lindsay Anderson

Exploring Social Cohesion Among Syrian Refugees in Canada: A Secondary Analysis , Sara Calvert

An Exploration of Medication Errors Generated by Baccalaureate Nursing Students Using Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) Technology in Clinical Simulation , Ryan Chan

An Exploration of the Nursing Leaders’ Experiences Addressing Indigenous Health in University Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Ontario , Danae Coggins

It's About Time! GDM: A Transformative Postpartum Process. A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study , Natalie Giannotti

Women's Quality of Life After Leaving an Abusive Relationship: The Effects of Past and Ongoing Intimate Partner Violence, Mastery and Social Support , Diana Jaradat

Exploring unmet healthcare needs, healthcare access, and the use of complementary and alternative medicine by chronic pain sufferers- An analysis of the National Population Health Survey , Jessica LaChance

Exploring Harm Reduction Among Canadian Veterans Experiencing Homelessness , Olivia Marsella

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Dissertations on Nursing

Nursing involves providing care for people and families, whether that be during bad physical or mental health, illness or injury. Nurses are compassionate and empathetic, supporting people during their time of need.

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Latest Nursing Dissertations

Including full dissertations, proposals, individual dissertation chapters, and study guides for students working on their undergraduate or masters dissertation.

Effect of Informative Electronic Discharge Summaries on Patient Safety and Satisfaction

Dissertation Proposals

Proposal to explore if informative electronic discharge summaries contribute to patient safety and satisfaction following day case cholecystectomy....

Last modified: 23rd Feb 2022

Is There Truly an Employee Engagement and Patient Satisfaction Link?

Dissertation Examples

The purpose of this paper will be to explore whether employee engagement in the healthcare industry has an impact on patient experience....

Homeless Lifestyle: The Impact on Healthcare for Homeless Patients in Primary Care

This study will explore the homeless lifestyle and how it impacts on nurses and other healthcare professionals care for the homeless in Primary Care....

Educational Intervention to Improve Nurses Knowledge of Pressure Injury

Improving knowledge of assistant nurses regarding pressure injury through an educational intervention to prevent pressure injury in an aged care facility....

The Impact of Cultural Diversity on the Workforce Performance in a London-based NHS Hospital

This study aimed to identify whether the recruitment of more culturally diverse employees to a central London based NHS Trust has had an impact on workforce performance....

Perceptions and Attitudes of Mental Health Nurses to Clinical Supervision

The main objective of this study was to identify and describe the perceptions and attitudes of mental health nurses to clinical supervision....

Last modified: 22nd Feb 2022

Nursing Labour Force in the United States Health Care System

This research paper will provide a brief description and statistics of the nurse labor force in the USA, the educational requirement needed to be a nurse, the challenges face by the nurses in the healthcare system....

Midwife Experiences of Maternity Care for Asylum Seekers

The purpose of this dissertation is to investigate midwives’ experiences of providing maternity care to women seeking asylum....

Evidence-based Changes in Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs

Evidence-based practice is the result when clinical practice and scholarship are integrated into clinical decision-making....

What Causes Fear of Childbirth and How Can Midwives Support Women?

Fear of childbirth may lie behind a woman’s request for elective caesarean section and may lead to unnecessary caesarean section without medical indication if FOC is untreated....

Utilisation, Expectations, Experiences and Perspectives of Birth Plans

The utilisation of birth plans in childbirth and the expectations, experiences and perspectives of both women and healthcare professionals....

Physical and Mental Health Outcomes Among HIV Patients Receiving Integrated Care Treatment

The purpose of this archival study was to further contribute to the existing literature evaluating integrated care approaches to HIV treatment in community based settings....

Detecting Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy by Screening Programmes

The aims of this overview was to determine if hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can be detected accurately, reliably and effectively by screening programmes, and if screening programmes are effective in reducing the rate of mortality of sudden cardiac death....

Changes for Implementation of a Closed Loop Infusion Therapy System into an Existing Working Paediatric Hospital

The aim of this study is to ascertain what are the changes needed to work practices in order to effectively integrate a complete closed loop medication system into an existing paediatric intensive care....

Simulation for acute gynaecological emergencies - a training needs analysis

The aim of the survey was to assess the impact of a gynaecological simulation exercise in gynaecological emergencies....

Community-Based NHS Health Check Outreach Programme Reduces Health Inequalities

The study’s overall aim was to investigate the effectiveness of providing community-based health checks, how these results compare to national statistics and if the service is being marketed effectively....

Integrated treatment And The Co-occurring Disorder Patient

The goal of this paper is to examine if a substance abuse patient diagnosed as having a co-occurring mental illness benefit from the integrated care approach....

Care Planning for Ostomates: What Should Nurses Consider?

Example Literature Reviews

This literature review seeks to inform nursing care planning for ostomates from a divergent patient perspective....

Young Adult’s Perception of Life with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and a Stoma

The purpose of this study was to achieve an understanding of the lived experience as depicted by young adults with IBD and a stoma....

Barriers to Cancer Screening Among Immigrant Women in Miami

This paper will discuss the different angles of utilization of cancer screening among the immigrant women in Miami including the role played by the legislature, healthcare providers like nurses and the immigrant women in Miami....

Last modified: 3rd Feb 2022

Oral Assessments for Medically Ventilated Person

The aim of this project is to introduce an oral assessment tool and a mouth hygiene cleaning protocol for ICU. It will be specifically used with patients who are mechanically ventilated and will be supplemented with an educational package....

Last modified: 1st Feb 2022

Causes and Management of Emotions by Doctors

The objective of this research proposal is outlining a plan for a research on doctors of a Cardio Department of a hospital with an objective of understanding how these doctors manage emotions and respond to various emotions needs at work....

The Effects of Implementing a Nurse-driven Sepsis Protocol in the Emergency Department

The purpose of this study is to determine if nursing intervention can decrease the time to antibiotic and length of emergency department stay in the sepsis patient....

Last modified: 31st Jan 2022

Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Assessment and Management

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the pathophysiology, assessment, and management of diabetic foot ulcers....

Last modified: 28th Jan 2022

Interdisciplinary Teamwork in Diabetes Care: A Review of the Literature

This paper aims to use a literature review format in order to review available evidence regarding the subject of interdisciplinary teamworking (IDT) in diabetes care....

Last modified: 21st Jan 2022

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Your dissertation template

A template is provided to use for your dissertation. We recommend you use this as soon as you start any writing  rather than trying to apply it afterwards. As well as showing you the structure for your dissertation, it has built in styles than can help you format it as required for a long academic document.

Scroll down the page to find videos to help you with using the template.

Downloading the template

The template for your dissertation is provided here:

Nursing Dissertation Template

This includes a pre-created PRISMA flow diagram (just add the numbers) and the NMC template for Part B. If you are not using this format for Part B then you will of course need to delete/amend this.

Just click on either the link above or the image on the right to download the template. It will usually be automatically saved into your 'downloads' folder. We recommend moving it from there to a dedicated folder where you keep everything for your dissertation.

Important note:

You do not need to alter any of the fonts in the template, they have been approved by your faculty. Please ignore any advice that you see elsewhere about using alternative fonts.

Videos showing you how to use the template

The Skills Team have provided three videos which show you how to use the template. These are:

• An introduction to the template - including filling the title page
• Using the built-in styles and updating the table of contents
• Adding labels to your tables and figures and updating the lists of these

There are also some other videos that support using the generic university template (rather than the Nursing one specifically) that may be useful to some of you. These include using the cross-referencing tool and inserting landscape documents. You can find these videos on the Skills Team's  Undergraduate Dissertation Video Workshop page. Not all of you will find these useful however, so they are not included here.

An introduction to the template

Using styles and updating table of contents

Labelling your figures and tables

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Research Topics & Ideas: Nursing

50+ Nursing Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Finding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’re looking for a nursing-related research topic , but aren’t sure where to start. Here, we’ll explore a variety of nursing-related research ideas and topic thought-starters, including general nursing, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, obstetrics and gynaecological nursing, ICU and mental health nursing.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the nursing domain. This is the starting point, but to develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. In it, we cover the process of writing a dissertation or thesis from start to end. Be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to find a high-quality research topic. 

Overview: Nursing Research Topics

• General nursing-related topics
• Medical-surgical nursing
• Pediatric nursing
• Obstetrics and gynaecological nursing
• ICU nursing
• Mental health nursing

General Nursing Research Topics & Ideas

• The impact of cultural competence on patient care in the UK
• The importance of evidence-based practice in nursing for patients with HIV/AIDS
• The effects of workplace stress on nurse well-being and performance
• The role of nurse-patient communication for patients transitioning from adolescent to adult care
• The impact of technology on nursing practice and patient outcomes
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare for the rehabilitation of patients post-surgery
• The effects of fatigue on nurse performance in the emergency room
• The impact of nurse staffing levels on patient outcomes in rural areas
• The effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in managing chronic conditions: a case study of diabetes
• The impact of patient-centred care on health outcomes for the elderly
• The importance of patient safety in nursing: bedside nurse vigilance
• The effects of empathy and compassion in critical care nursing
• The role of nursing in disaster preparedness and response: a case study of the Haiti earthquake of 2021
• The impact of the level of nursing education on patient outcomes
• The importance of ethical considerations in frail care nursing practice

Topics & Ideas: Medical-Surgical Nursing

• The impact of bedside care on patient outcomes in medical-surgical units
• The role of the nurse in managing post-operative patient pain
• The effects of nurse-patient ratios on patient outcomes in medical-surgical units
• A systematic review of different approaches to patient education in medical-surgical units
• The relationship between nurse-patient communication and patient satisfaction in medical-surgical units: perspectives and recommendations to improving patient satisfaction

Topics & Ideas: Pediatrics Nursing

• The impact of family-centered care on pediatric patient outcomes with sickle cell anemia
• The role of nursing interventions in promoting developmental and behavioral health in pediatric patients
• The effects of play therapy on anxiety and pain in pediatric patients during hospitilisation
• A systematic review of different approaches to pain management in pediatric cancer patients
• The relationship between parent involvement and post-operative patient outcomes in pediatric units

Ideas: Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing

• The impact of nurse-led prenatal care on maternal and fetal outcomes in African American communities
• The role of the nurse in promoting sexual and reproductive health for women in the UK
• The effects of midwifery care on maternal satisfaction of primiparous women and birth outcomes
• A comparative study of different approaches to childbirth education for expectant mothers and partners: perceptions of control
• The relationship between lactation support and breastfeeding success of primiparous women

Topics & Ideas: ICU Nursing

• The impact of nursing interventions on patient outcomes in intensive care units in a developing country
• The role of the nurse in managing palliative and end-of-life care in the ICU
• The effects of family presence on patient outcomes and satisfaction in the ICU: A systematic review of the literature
• A comparative study of different approaches to pain management for trauma patients in the ICU
• The relationship between nurse-patient communication and geriatric patient outcomes in ICU

Topics & Ideas: Mental Health Nursing

• The impact of nurse-led therapy on adolescent patient outcomes in mental health settings
• The role of the nurse in promoting recovery and resiliency in mental health patients through group interventions
• The effects of mindfulness-based interventions on stress and anxiety in mental health patients: A systematic literature review
• A comparative study of the role of nurses in applying different approaches to patient education in mental health settings
• The association between nurse-patient therapeutic alliance and patient outcomes in mental health settings

Nursing Dissertation & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a nursing-related research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various nursing-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• Nursing Workload and Interventions of Licensed Nurses in Nursing Homes: An Observational Time and Motion Study (Kang, 2021)
• Missed Nursing Care: Accounting for Education, Experience, and Job Satisfaction in Registered Nurses (Bechard, 2021)
• Examining Predictors of Attitudes and Knowledge of Registered Nurses and Nursing Students in Tennessee toward Pregnant and Perinatal Women with a Substance Use Disorder (Patrylo, 2021)
• A Program Evaluation of the Organizational Readiness for Pathway to Excellence at Two Community Hospitals  (Behling, 2021)
• The Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic Policy Decisions on the Wellbeing of Nursing Home Residents in Missouri (White, 2022)
• Battling A Parallel Pandemic: An Evaluation of Sustainable System-Level Nursing Support in Response To COVID-19 (Gifford, 2022)
• Holistic Nursing Process Maps: a Tool for Student Nurses to Operationalize the Nursing Process to Increase Clinical Reasoning (Reyes, 2022)
• Satisfaction and Work-Life Balance in Undergraduate Nursing Faculty: A Mixed-Methods Study (Crawford, 2021)
• The Effect of Mindfulness Meditation on the Stress, Anxiety, Mindfulness, and Self-Compassion Levels of Nursing Students (Heinrich, 2022)
• Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Case Studies in Undergraduate Nursing Students (Becnel, 2022)
• A Telehealth Simulation Experiment: Exploring Prebriefing (Owen, 2022)
• Perceptions of Lateral Violence Among Vocational Nursing Students, Associate Degree Nursing Students, and Bachelor’s Degree Nursing Students (Martha, 2022)
• Nurse Educators’ Description of Ethics from a Disciplinary Perspective: A Qualitative Descriptive Research Study (Cuchetti, 2022)
• A Literature Review of the Relationship Between Oral Health and Pneumonia Risk in the Geriatric Nursing Home Population (Swift, 2021)

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. This is an important thing to keep in mind as you develop your own research topic. That is to say, to create a top-notch research topic, you must be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

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Home > ACADEMIC-UNITS > College of Health Sciences > School of Nursing > NURSING-MSN

Master of Science in Nursing Theses and Projects

Theses/projects from 2023 2023.

Effects of Nurse-Led Hemodialysis Education Intervention on Hospital Readmission Rates , Kristi L. Keller

Operating Room Efficiency: Time is Money , Hannah Leonard

Theses/Projects from 2022 2022

Proposal for a Formal Pediatric Abuse Screening Tool for the Emergency Department , Christina Bolin

Patient Satisfaction , Amber Bowman

Implementing Rapid Response and Medical Emergency Simulation Training for Medical-Surgical Nurses , Brandon Burnett

Reducing Observation Unit Length of Stay Hours: A Quality Improvement Project , Rena D. Cantrell

Hand Hygiene Compliance in Nursing Staff of Long-Term Care Facilities , Lindsay Clontz

Increasing Patient Initial Visit Compliance in an Outpatient Setting , Zackery Cooper

Reducing the Number of Patients Leaving Before Evaluation From the Emergency Department , Myranda Dills

Smoking Cessation: A Nurse-Led Approach to Address Gaps in Patient Care , Katie L. Durham

Fluid State and Diet Control in Patients With Acute Kidney Injury on Hemodialysis , Carolyn Evans-Howard

Promoting Organ Donation Among Adults , Susan Hammitt

The Struggle to Alleviate Nurse Burnout , Shawn Harmon

A Day in the Life of a Hospital Bedside Nurse: A Different Look at Nurse Stressors , Angela R. Higdon

Case Manager Discharge Planning for Safe Discharge of Homeless Patients , Melody Jenkins

Medication Reconciliation: Protecting the Geriatric Population , Charles Jennings

Promoting Alternative and Evidence-Supported Birthing Options in Healthcare Facilities , Ashley Johnson Ross

Combating the Challenge of Maintaining Active-Duty Military Medical Force Readiness , Thomas Jones

Reducing the Use of Physical Restraints of the Elderly in the Acute Care Setting , Rachael Malone

The Importance of Skin-to-Skin Initiated in the Operating Room , Katina Miller

Perceived Effects of COVID-19 on K-5 Educators and Learners , Fairbee Mintz

Improving Communication Skills of New Graduate Nurses: Using SBAR Format , Meredith LyAnne Parker

Bedside Reporting , Morgan Sanford

Reduce Nurse Burnout During COVID-19: Implementation of the STOP Method , Heather Smallwood

Prevention of Infection During Hemodialysis Treatment Initiation , Jessica Stroupe

Theses/Projects from 2021 2021

Faculty Perception of Student Nurse Compassion Post-Simulation Experiences , Lisa Alley

Incivility in Nursing , Amanda Woodie Barnes

Electronic Medical Records and the Lost Art of Nursing , Tonya Blackwell

Yearly Endometriosis Education for Reproductive Nurses , Jessica Boyer

Utilization of HIV Care Coordination Programs to Address Gaps in Care , Jessica Chavis

Implementation of Obstetric Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (OB ERAS) Protocol: Prenatally Through Transition To Community , Emily Corbett

The Impact of an Employee Action Program on Staff Accountability and Nursing Retention , Amber Crouse

Improving Effective Communication During a Pandemic , Stephanie Brooke Greene

Trauma Admission Guidelines for Elderly Isolated Orthopedic Injuries , Jessica Lauren Hamrick-Welchel

Wound Nurse Specialists’ Pressure Injury Knowledge and Specialty Support Surface Preferences , Catherine Koutroumpis

Nursing Attitudes to Hospice Care in the Intensive Care Unit , Claudia LaCivita

Working through a Virtual Reality: Empowering Experienced Nurses through Hybrid Orientation Programs , Latoria Massey

Improving Nursing Practice for Perinatal Mood Disorders , Tonya May

Perception of Health Literacy Levels Among Nurses in Clinical Settings , Chelsea L. Oxendine

Grieving Nurses' Need for Support , Tammy Patterson

Pandemic Recovery in Nursing: Labor Shortage and Financial Devastation , Rebecca Rogers

Crisis Redeployment: An Evidence-Based Plan for Nursing , Lauren Setzer

Reducing Hospital Readmissions Using the Self Care Deficit Theory , Katherine DeCillis Taylor

Leadership Role in Decreasing Nurse Turnover , Gwynne Turney

Bullying in Nursing , Amanda Vargas

Cardiac Telemetry Monitoring: Understanding Misutilization and How to Ameliorate , Stanley Yeargin

Undergraduate Nursing Students’ Attitudes Toward Mental Illness and Psychiatric Nursing as a Career Choice , Sharon Zurline

Theses/Projects from 2020 2020

Front-Line Nurse Manager Succession Planning: Building and Promoting Strong Nurse Leaders Through Implementation of a Nurse Manager Development Program , Melany Boyd

Improving the Relationship between Emergency Nurses and the Behavioral Health Patient , Alea Bundy

Health Care Provider’s Perspectives of a Woman’s Quality of Life Facing Endometriosis and Infertility , Bridget Ford

Debriefing Emergency Department Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic , Jessica Hailstock

Shared Governance Council: Improving Staff and Patient Satisfaction , Haley O'Brien Hall

New Nurse Graduate Mentoring: An Early Implementation Program , Stacy Inman

Proposal of the Need for Mental Health First Aid Training of Associate Degree Nursing Faculty in a Community College Setting , Amy Kelly

Clinical Grading Rubric and Interrater Reliability , Stephanie F. Lunsford

Correlational Impact of Workload, Teamwork and Retention Rate for Clinical Nursing Units , Phillip J. Nutter

Raising Awareness of Eating Disorders in the High School System: A Community Program Project , Dara Puryear

Communication within the Perioperative Department , Leah Quinn

Gratitude Journaling as Intervention to Combat Nurse Burnout in Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Nurses , Melinda Simpson

Preparing the Nurse Aide I Student for the Workplace: Combating Burnout and Compassion Fatigue , Patrice Staley

Postpartum Depression in Military Mothers:Active Duty and Partners of Active Duty Service Members , Amanda Willis

Reducing Nurses' Communication Anxiety During End of Life Care , Susan Dunbar Wolfrom

Community Outreach and Education Project: Hepatitis A and B Vaccines in High Risk Populations , Ellen Wright

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Writing the introduction to your dissertation or scholarly project

This chapter from A Nurse's Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Dissertation or Scholarly Project,  Second Edition,  discusses the elements of your introduction—from background information to your action plan.

ELEMENTS OF YOUR INTRODUCTION

• Provides some background information so that readers understand the issue
• Explains why the issue is important
• Describes what is known about the issue
• States what we need to find out or what action needs to be taken and why
• Presents how you plan to do that (your study/project)

Whatever it is, something made you sit up and pay attention. The introduction is your opportunity to make the reader do the same. In this part of the dissertation, you tell readers why you care about this topic, and even more important, why they should care, too.

In dissertation/project speak, we call this establishing significance . In plain English, we’re saying, “Hey, listen up! This is important, and here’s why.”

Of course, you can’t expect readers to just take your word for it. You need to first give them information so that they understand the problem, and you need to back up that information with evidence. After you do that, you can ask them to consider your idea for what we need to do next, whether that is gathering more information or trying out a solution.

You’ve already started Good news: You’ve already done most of the work for this chapter! Much of the introduction will come from all the information you gathered when you did your literature review. What you want to do is summarize the literature review. As you do so, include enough information to familiarize readers with your topic and to convince them of its importance without extensive details or an in-depth review of individual studies.

Creating an outline You can begin by developing an outline based on the required elements. To do so, first answer each of the following questions (which correlate with required elements 1 through 4 listed at the beginning of this chapter) with one or two sentences:

• What is happening?
• Why should we care?
• What do we know now?
• What do we need to find out and why? or What do we need to do to address this?

After you’ve answered the questions, read your answers in order. Each answer should connect with what comes before, and all of them should lead you straight to a logical therefore statement.

Therefore, I am going to conduct a study to…

Therefore, I designed a quality improvement project to…

If the answers don’t lead directly to the therefore statement, what’s missing? Where does the connection get lost? If you haven’t gotten the reader to care, then it doesn’t matter what you know and what you want to do. Or maybe now the reader cares but wonders why you need to do this particular study at this particular time, because it doesn’t seem to be the next logical thing to do based on what’s already been done. Or you haven’t shown how the solution you propose could effectively address the problem you’ve identified.  

Here’s an example of what the answers to these questions might be for a dissertation proposal on intimate partner violence (IPV) in the rural setting:

• What is happening? IPV is a pervasive health and social problem in the United States. One out of three women experience IPV in their lifetime.
• Why should we care? IPV causes tremendous physical and emotional suffering and even death. It’s costly to individual women and society.
• What do we know now? Women in the rural setting who experience IPV face unique challenges. Current support and resources are inadequate and ineffective.
• What do we need to find out and why? There is little research on the lived experience of IPV for women in the rural setting. We need to understand this so we can develop effective services and provide appropriate resources and support.

Therefore, I propose a qualitative descriptive study of the lived experience of women who experience intimate partner violence in the rural setting.

Here’s an example for a scholarly project to decrease the rate of central line-associated bloodstream infections in an ICU:

• What is happening? Rates of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in the intensive care unit are higher than national benchmarks.
• Why should we care? CLABSI is associated with higher morbidity rates and a mortality rate of 10% to 20%. It leads to an increased length of stay for the patient and costs the hospital over $28,000 per patient. CLABSI costs the U.S. healthcare system close to 2 billion dollars annually.
• What do we know now? CLABSIs are preventable. Evidence-based protocols reduce the rate of CLABSIs. The Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Program (CUSP) toolkit has reduced the national rate of CLABSIs by 41%.
• What do we need to do to address this? Follow evidence-based protocols in caring for patients with central lines.

Therefore, I am going to lead a team to modify the CUSP toolkit to meet the needs of the ICU and implement it on the unit.

How you proceed at this point depends on your own writing work style. Some people prefer to work from a detailed outline. If you do, you can now begin to fill in your answers with more particulars. If you are not an outline type of worker, you can move on to writing the introduction, as described later in this chapter.

Filling in the outline Under each question, list the different pieces of information that you need to add. Depending on your topic and purpose, your outline should include some or all of the following information:

• Condition, problem, issue
• Definition or brief description
• Population affected
• Epidemiology
• Where (e.g., United States, globally, developing countries, hospital or community)
• Mortality rates
• Local problem (for quality improvement project)
• Associated concepts necessary to understanding of problem or approach
• Morbidity and mortality
• Pain and suffering it causes
• Economic costs
• Organization/institution
• Increasing or worsening?
• Consequences/impact of local problem
• Recent research
• Current treatments or interventions
• Limitations
• What do we need to find out and why?
• Questions that still need to be answered
• Interventions to be trialed
• Factors or outcomes in a specific population
• Benefits to be gained
• Better patient outcomes
• More effective interventions
• Improved services
• Workforce issues
• Improved systems

Writing the introduction When you start writing this part of your dissertation, remember that each section is an introduction to the material included. So, don’t get too detailed. The important thing is that you adequately and succinctly cover all these areas. In your Literature Review (Chapter Two), you critically review prior research and cover the individual studies in depth. In the Introduction, in contrast, you present what is known with appropriate citations of the evidence but don’t get into detailed information about that evidence.

In addition, you’ll notice some overlap among the four questions. Don’t try to adhere to a structure that rigidly partitions answers to each question. For example, when you talk about prevalence in answer to the “What is happening?” question, you are beginning to make a case for significance.

What is happening? The first paragraph introduces your topic and makes a brief statement about its significance. Within the first two sentences, the reader should know what the topic is. Don’t take the reader on a roundabout trip to your topic. If your topic is stress incontinence in older women, start with a statement about stress incontinence. Don’t start by talking about the aging of the population and then explain how older people have more problems with incontinence and that there are different types of incontinence, one of which is stress incontinence. Try to get the topic in the first sentence. After we know you’re talking about stress incontinence, you can go on to tell us that it is more common in older women and that its prevalence is increasing with the aging of the population.

Describe the population that is affected and provide statistics on the prevalence:

• How many people are affected, or how often does it happen?
• How big is this problem?
• What population is primarily affected?
• What are the mortality and morbidity rates?
• Is the problem increasing, or is its impact becoming greater?

In a scholarly project, you also have to give the reader background information on the “local problem.” What is happening in your specific setting that compels you to do this quality improvement project? How do you know there is a problem? What is the population affected? What are the consequences of the problem?

Why should we care? Now that readers know what you’re going to be talking about, you need to convince them of its importance. You do this by talking about its impact on those affected by it and on society. If you haven’t talked about prevalence, an important aspect of a problem’s significance, you’ll want to discuss it here.

The impact on those it affects is the other important aspect of a problem’s significance. Depending on your topic, this may include any of the following:

• Physical and mental health effects
• Social implications
• Economic impact on the individual and society
• Contribution to healthcare costs
• Healthcare system implications
• Patient safety outcomes
• Impact on the nursing profession

Be careful how and where you talk about the economic costs of a problem. You don’t want it to appear that you are prioritizing cost over people. If your purpose is related to a health systems problem, economic costs may be a primary factor. However, if it is related to a patient outcomes problem, cost may be one of the reasons we should care, but it should not be the primary one. You can make this clear in the wording and where in the text you place information. If it is a patient-related problem, talk about cost last and begin with a transitional phrase such as in addition to or along with [the impact on patients]:

In addition to the decrease in patient suffering and lower risk of death, improving our CLABSI rates will result in significant cost savings to the hospital.

What do we know now? You will have included some of what we know now in answering the first two questions. In answering this question, though, you want to talk about what is known in relation to the specific purpose of your study or project. This will then lead the reader to what we need to find out, which is the knowledge or practice gap that your dissertation or project is trying to fill.

If your study or project is looking to better understand a problem or discover more information about the impact of a problem, then in this section you’ll describe current understanding or information. If you are doing an interventional study or quality improvement project that looks at how to address a problem, you also need to describe what we currently know about what works or doesn’t work (in other words, what’s already been tried and how it worked out).

What do we need to find out and why? Now that you’ve established where we’re at currently, it’s time to let the reader know what the next step should be. This is where you introduce the knowledge or practice gap that you are going to address in your study or project. This will be a shorter version of what you discuss in the literature review, but the same format applies. Use a transitional sentence to move from what is known to what we need to find out or from what is known about a problem to what you are proposing to do about the problem. Then tell the reader why the knowledge or project is necessary.

But remember, keep it brief. One or two sentences should cover it. For example:

Though there is evidence from studies of disenfranchised grief to suggest that parents who experience the death of an estranged son or daughter may suffer complicated grief and receive less support than other bereaved parents, there is little research that explores this experience in this population. Understanding the lived experience of grief after the death of an estranged son or daughter is needed for us to develop effective counseling and support services for these parents.

And finally, what you are going to do:

Therefore, I am going to conduct a qualitative phenomenological study of the meaning of grief in parents following the death of an estranged son or daughter.

PICOT statements You may be directed to write a PICOT problem statement, particularly if you are doing quantitative research or a quality improvement project. Here’s what a PICOT statement covers:

P opulation: Who is the focus of your study or project? I ntervention: What activity/behavior is being tested? C omparison: What group are you comparing your population to? O utcome: What are the outcomes you are examining? T ime: What is the duration of the intervention or study period?

Your plan (methodology) After you state your purpose, you need to briefly describe how you propose to accomplish it. If you are doing a research study, your purpose statement usually includes the methodological approach you plan to use (as shown in the preceding examples). You should then describe your design in one or two sentences. Are you going to use a survey? Conduct interviews? Do focus groups? What is the sampling frame? What’s the duration of the project or study period? For example:

Therefore, I propose a discharge follow-up program for heart failure patients that provides biweekly home visits by nurse practitioners for 2 weeks following hospital discharge. I will compare 30-day readmission rates for patients during the 6 months prior to initiation of the program and for the 6 months after initiation of the program.

Research questions Finally, you include your specific research question or questions. This is usually your purpose statement reformulated as a question but may also include additional questions that drill down into more specifics:

What is the lived experience of IPV for women in the context of the rural setting?

What are the IPV-related knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of healthcare providers in the rural setting?

Will biweekly home visits conducted by nurse practitioners for 2 weeks post hospital discharge reduce readmission rates for heart failure patients?

Does participation in simulation teamwork exercises improve the perception of teamwork among interprofessional operating room staff?

If you have specific hypotheses, you include those in this section as well.

Checking that you’ve covered your purpose statement When you finish the introduction, go back and check that you’ve covered all aspects of your purpose or therefore statement. Break the purpose statement into questions and check that each question is answered, albeit briefly, in the introduction. Not knowing the answer to any of the questions reveals gaps in your thinking or in your review of the literature.

Nothing about your purpose statement should be arbitrary. You should be able to clearly see where it came from: What in the literature or your practice supports your decisions about variables, time duration, and outcome measures?

So, let’s look at the example of the discharge follow-up program for heart failure patients:

Therefore, I propose a discharge follow-up program that provides biweekly home visits by nurse practitioners for 2 weeks following hospital discharge. I will compare 30-day readmission rates for patients during the 6 months prior to initiation of the program and for the 6 months after initiation of the program.

For this purpose statement, you would want to be able to answer the following questions:

• Why look at a discharge follow-up program for HF patients?
• Why post-discharge home visits as the follow-up intervention?
• Why make the visits biweekly?
• Why by nurse practitioners (versus other healthcare personnel)?
• Why 2 weeks duration following hospital discharge?
• Why 30-day readmission rates as the outcome measure?

Of course, you will only be able to answer all the questions if your literature review was comprehensive and complete. If you haven’t answered all these questions in the introduction, go back to your literature review and see whether the answers are there. If not, you’ve got to get back into the literature and find them and revise your literature review to include that information before moving on.

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Dissertation Topics in Nursing

Dieckmann, Nathan F.; Stoyles, Sydnee A.; Aebischer, Jonathan H.; Olvera-Alvarez, Hector A.

Nathan F. Dieckmann, PhD, is Associate Professor and Director of the Statistics Core, Oregon Health and Science University School of Nursing, Portland.

Sydnee A. Stoyles, MBST, MAT, is Biostatistician, Oregon Health and Science University School of Nursing, Portland.

Jonathan H. Aebischer, DNP, FNP-C, is PhD Candidate and Graduate Research Associate, Oregon Health and Science University School of Nursing, Portland.

Hector A. Olvera-Alvarez, PhD, is Associate Professor and Senior Associate Dean for Research, Oregon Health and Science University School of Nursing, Portland.

Accepted for publication March 18, 2022.

The authors would like to thank the library staff at the University of Oregon for help searching abstract databases.

This study was exempt per the institutional review board because no human subjects’ information was collected or used. Only publicly available dissertation abstracts were used in this research.

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report.

Corresponding author: Nathan F. Dieckmann, PhD, Oregon Health and Science University School of Nursing, 3455 SW U.S. Veterans Hospital Rd., Portland, OR 97239 (e-mail: [email protected] ).

Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal’s Web site ( www.nursingresearchonline.com ).

Background 

Few quantitative studies have documented the types of research topics most commonly employed by nursing PhD students and whether they differ by program delivery (in-person vs. online/hybrid programs).

Objectives 

We examined a large set of publicly available PhD dissertation abstracts to (a) describe the relative prevalence of different research topics and methods and (b) test whether the primary topics and methods used differed between online or hybrid and in-person PhD programs. A secondary goal was to introduce the reader to modern text-mining approaches to generate insights from a document corpus.

Methods 

Our database consisted of 2,027 dissertation abstracts published between 2015 and 2019. We used a structural topic modeling text-mining approach to explore PhD students’ research topics and methods in United States-based doctoral nursing programs.

Results 

We identified 24 different research topics representing a wide range of research activities. Most of the research topics identified did not differ in prevalence between online/hybrid and in-person programs. However, online/hybrid programs were more likely to engage students in research focused on nursing education, professional development, work environment, simulation, and qualitative analysis. Pediatrics, sleep science, older adults and aging, and chronic disease management were more prevalent topics in in-person-only programs.

Discussion 

The range of topics identified highlights the breadth of research nursing PhD students’ conduct. Both in-person and online/hybrid programs offer a range of research opportunities, although we did observe some differences in topic prevalence. These differences could be due to the nature of some types of research (e.g., research that requires an in-person presence) or differences in research intensity between programs (e.g., amount of grant funding or proximity to a medical center). Future research should explore why research topic prevalence may vary by program delivery. We hope that this text-mining application serves as an illustrative example for researchers considering how to draw inferences from large sets of text documents. We are particularly interested in seeing future work that might combine traditional qualitative approaches and large-scale text mining to leverage the advantages of each.

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