Linking research and practice through discussion.
PURPOSE: To describe the process and outcomes of a researcher-initiated discussion group with nurses in clinical practice. DESIGN: Descriptive case study. The study, which began in 1991, included one group of four acute care nurses. Between 1992-1996, three other groups of nurses participated. METHODS: Nurses in practice read and discussed articles from a program of research on breast cancer during a series of group sessions. The semi-structured sessions were tape-recorded. RESULTS: Participants suggested how to make article content more understandable to clinicians; they affirmed findings relevant to practice; and identified ways to integrate research in practice. CONCLUSIONS: Discussion served as a means for the researcher and nurses to connect the research-practice gap through learning the practice perspective and the process and value of research. Discussion groups are recommended to enhance science-based clinical practice.