Strategic plan sets priorities, research direction for nursing science

The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) has released a new strategic plan that details the institute’s priorities for the conduct and support of future nursing science. The plan, “Advancing Science, Improving Lives: A Vision for Nursing Science,” grew from NINR’s 2011 Strategic Plan, past scientific accomplishments, and current research priorities. NINR is part of the National Institutes of Health.

“Our new strategic plan will guide nurse scientists as they shape their research programs.”

— Dr. Patricia A. Grady, Director, NINR

“Given nursing science’s strong clinical focus, NINR-supported research is indispensable in addressing the health challenges of today and tomorrow,” said NINR Director Dr. Patricia A. Grady. “Our new strategic plan will guide nurse scientists as they shape their research programs. It also shows the public how nursing science provides the evidence base to support the practice of the largest healthcare profession to improve health, wellness and quality of life.”

The new plan was shaped by the NINR Innovative Questions (IQ) initiative, an effort to encourage new thinking and creativity in nursing science from the broader scientific community and general public. The IQ Initiative sought to explore unanswered questions, promote results-oriented research, and guide the science over the next five to 10 years. The innovative questions that emerged from the IQ Initiative played a major role in informing the future research directions that are presented in the strategic plan.

The plan highlights four areas of scientific focus – symptom science, wellness, self-management, and end-of-life and palliative care. Promoting innovation and developing 21st century nurse scientists are emphasized across all of NINR’s research programs.

“Advancing Science, Improving Lives: A Vision for Nursing Science,” is available online. To order print copies, please call 301-496-0207 or send an email to info@ninr.nih.gov(link sends e-mail).

About the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR): NINR supports basic and clinical research that develops the knowledge to build the scientific foundation for clinical practice, prevent disease and disability, manage and eliminate symptoms caused by illness, and enhance end-of-life and palliative care. For more information about NINR, visit the website at www.ninr.nih.gov.

About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.

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