Which type of research focuses on the application of theory to practice within nursing?

Applied research is specifically designed to address practical issues and to solve real-world problems, often using established theories as a foundation. In the context of nursing, this type of research seeks to translate theoretical concepts into effective practices, guiding nursing interventions and improving patient outcomes. By focusing on immediate applications, applied research can inform clinical practices and help nurses implement evidence-based strategies in diverse healthcare settings.

In contrast, basic research tends to prioritize generating new knowledge and understanding underlying principles without immediate application in practice. Qualitative and quantitative research methods refer to different approaches for collecting and analyzing data but do not inherently focus on the application of theory to practice. While all these types of research contribute valuable insights to the nursing field, applied research distinctly centers on the practical implementation of theoretical frameworks.