A comparative evaluation of two educational strategies to promote publication by nurses.

BACKGROUND: Two group educational strategies to promote publication by nurses at The Johns Hopkins Hospital were evaluated and found to result in similar success rates. METHOD: Eighteen nurses, divided into two groups, attended three monthly sessions for instruction, guidance, and encouragement on writing and publishing. One group received additional guidance and encouragement during quarterly meetings for 1 year. Data were collected on participants' characteristics and publication success rates. RESULTS: Both groups achieved similar publication success rates. CONCLUSION: A group education program to promote publication by novice nurse authors achieved positive outcomes and used resources more cost-effectively than the traditional method of individual instruction and guidance. Two factors having positive effects on publication success were: a) having a clear topic for publication at the outset of the educational program, and b) holding a positive perception of the value placed on publication within one's practice environment. The authors suggest alternative educational and other strategies to encourage nurses to share their clinical knowledge through publication.