Title : Exploring the interplay of research capacity, motivation, and team climate among dental nurses
Abstract:
Objective This study aims to investigate the interrelationships among research capacity, research motivation, and team climate among dental specialty nurses in public dental hospitals.
Methods: The Scientific Research Capacity Self-rating Scale of Nursing Staff (SRASES), the Chinese version of the Research Motivation Scale (RMS-C) and the Team Climate Inventory (TCI) were used to survey 229 dental nurses online. The Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression model were used to explore the relationship between research capacity, research motivation, and team climate in dental nurse. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Zhejiang University (No.2023010).
Results: Dental nurses received overall scores of (51.87±21.43), (66.06±8.02), and (53.76±7.90) for research capacity, motivation and team climate, respectively. Team climate and research capacity were weakly correlated (r=0.354), research motivation and research capacity were moderately correlated (r=0.441), and research motivation and Team climate were moderately correlated (r=0.512). Research motivation and team climate were enrolled after residual analysis and collinearity test. The regression coefficient value of research motivation and team climate were 0.312 (t=4.492, P<0.001) and 0.194 (t=2.795, P=0.006), respectively.
Conclusion: Research motivation and team climate were found to be closely associated with research capacity among dental nurses. It is crucial to cultivate a harmonious and supportive team environment, as well as to boost research motivation through internal and external means.
Audience Take Away:
- In the academic field of dental nursing, the enhancement of research capabilities among nursing staff is a complex task that requires not only the strengthening of individual research motivation but also the cultivation of a positive and vibrant team work environment. The interaction between these two factors is crucial, as they play a pivotal role in advancing research capabilities. Consequently, hospitals must adopt a comprehensive approach that includes providing opportunities for career development, recognizing and rewarding individuals who participate in research, and fostering a culture that promotes academic and professional growth. Additionally, establishing policies that encourage teamwork, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the free flow of knowledge among team members is essential.
- Research has clearly demonstrated that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient for enhancing research motivation and team dynamics. Therefore, hospitals must implement a variety of strategies to meet the diverse needs and preferences of nursing staff. This includes offering a range of incentive measures, customizing career development plans according to individual needs, and providing flexible work arrangements. Through such diversified strategies, the enthusiasm for research and team collaboration among nursing staff can be more effectively stimulated, thereby promoting the enhancement of the team's research capabilities and the quality of nursing services.
- Applying research findings to clinical practice is a direct pathway to improving the quality of nursing services. Hospitals should encourage nursing staff to apply research discoveries to their actual work, which can be achieved through initiatives such as conducting clinical research projects and implementing evidence-based practice guidelines. Such applications not only enhance the quality of nursing services but also strengthen the research confidence and motivation of nursing staff, further advancing the development of the academic field of dental nursing.
