A nursing journal article is a scholarly piece that contributes to the body of knowledge in the nursing field. These articles are often based on original research, literature reviews, case studies, or theoretical discussions. Writing a nursing journal article involves rigorous research, critical thinking, and precise writing skills. It’s not just about presenting information; it’s about making a meaningful contribution to nursing science.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Nursing Journal Article

 

1. Draw on Your Expertise

 

When writing a nursing journal article, it is essential to adhere to the principle of “write what you know.” Journals provide a platform for nursing professionals to share their expert knowledge on specific subjects, potentially leading to the development of new strategies that enhance the efficiency or effectiveness of healthcare delivery. For instance, a nurse practitioner specializing in gerontology might write about the potential use of artificial intelligence in palliative care, inspiring other nurses to innovate in end-of-life care strategies.

 

However, it is crucial to ensure that the article avoids plagiarism and offers a unique perspective not already covered in existing literature. To achieve this, professionals should familiarize themselves with various nursing journals and stay updated on current healthcare theories and philosophies. By doing so, they can contribute fresh, original insights that advance the field of nursing.

 

Focus on writing about topics you are most familiar with. For example, if you work on a hemodialysis unit and recently managed a patient who experienced a cardiovascular event, consider writing about managing cardiovascular emergencies in this patient population. If you are an endoscopy nurse who works with patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), focus your article on the nursing implications of caring for patients after this procedure.

 

It is essential to keep your topic focused to control the length of your manuscript and ensure you provide relevant content to the reader. For instance, an article about caring for patients with pancreatic disorders is too broad. A more focused article might cover cystic fibrosis, specifically its impact on health-related quality of life. You could narrow the topic further by concentrating on adolescents with cystic fibrosis.

 

2. Choosing a Topic

 

The first step in writing a nursing journal article is selecting a relevant and engaging topic. The topic should be specific, manageable, and significant to the nursing field. Consider recent trends, gaps in the literature, or personal experiences that could offer valuable insights.

 

Example: Timothy decides to focus on the impact of telehealth on patient outcomes in rural communities, a topic that is both timely and relevant.

 

3. Choose an Article Type

 

Authors have several types of journal articles to choose from when writing for a nursing journal. An article can focus on original research conducted to test a hypothesis or examine the parameters of a specific process or procedure. Alternatively, it can be a review of existing literature related to healthcare. Nursing journal articles may also provide detailed descriptions of particular practices or procedures. Additionally, an article can explore the impact of existing and emerging healthcare policies. Each type of article demands thorough research and robust evidence to support any proposed theories.

 

ARTICLE TYPES

 

Articles published by NursingBuddie.com typically fall into one of the following categories:

 

• Discussion
• Review
• Innovation
• Research
• Clinical Comment

 

Discussion

 

Usually commissioned, discussion articles explore aspects of nursing practice or theory, leveraging literature and expert clinical knowledge to delve into professional and practice issues. These articles often address topics with varying opinions or emerging issues affecting patients and/or the profession. The goals of a discussion article are to:

 

– Encourage readers to reflect on and challenge their views

– Foster discussion and reflection on nursing practice

 

Example:

Professional midwifery advocates: delivering restorative clinical supervision

 

Review

 

Review articles provide updates and overviews on nursing issues in clinical practice, such as a specific diagnosis (e.g., COPD, heart failure) or a nursing intervention (e.g., ECG, peritoneal dialysis, pain management). These articles should present the literature in a clear, logical format, divided into sections to guide the reader. The primary aim of a review article is to:

 

– Assist nurses in providing evidence-based practice

 

Example: Essential critical care skills 3: arterial line care

 

Innovation

 

Innovation articles report on new practice developments led or conducted by nurses. Their objectives are to:

 

– Share useful information

– Inspire nurses to undertake similar initiatives to improve their services

 

 

Research

 

Research articles report on original nursing research, written in clear, plain English to make the findings accessible to nurses who may not read academic or specialist journals. The main aim of a research article is to:

 

– Make nursing research available and understandable to a broad audience

 

Example:

The experiences of grief in patients with end-stage kidney disease

 

Clinical Comment

 

Clinical comments are more informal than other clinical articles and represent a viewpoint or describe an experience. Authenticity is key in these pieces.

 

Example:

MASD is a significant problem and not getting the attention it deserves

 

Writing Style

NursingBuddie.com aims to meet the information needs of busy nurses, most of whom work in clinical practice or managerial roles. We publish articles in clear, plain English, avoiding complex or overly academic language and minimizing jargon.

 

Articles should follow a logical order and be structured with headings, bullet points, boxes, tables, and figures as appropriate to help readers follow the ideas.

 

Writing in Plain English

 

Plain English is not simplistic or patronizing; it is clear and concise, with a tone and language appropriate for the audience. This approach allows readers to focus on evaluating and appreciating the content rather than deciphering complex language.

 

Here are some examples of how complex words and phrases can often be replaced by simpler ones:

 

Complex	Simple
Utilise	Use
For the purposes of	For
Prior to	Before
With regard to	About
In order to	To
Demonstrate	Show
Implement	Start
Facilitate	Help
Endeavor	Try

 

For more information on writing plain English, go to http://www.plainenglish.co.uk/free-guides.html

 

 

ABBREVIATIONS

 

Keep abbreviations to a minimum. When used, spell them out in full the first time they appear, followed by the abbreviation in brackets. Explain any specialist terms.

 

REFERENCES/CITATIONS

 

References and citations should follow the Harvard style and be listed in alphabetical order. Within each author’s works, list references in reverse chronological order (newest to oldest). If no date is available, list ‘no date’ (nd) references first. Cite the author’s name and the year of publication in the text. If there are more than two authors, use the first author’s name followed by “et al.”

 

Examples:

 

– “xxx (Jones, 2021; Smith et al., 2020).”

– “Jones (2021) stated that…”

 

Follow the formatting guidelines for different source types as shown below:

 

Journal Articles:

 

– Author surname(s) and initial(s), year of publication, article title, journal title in full, volume, issue (if available), page numbers/range in full.

 

Example:

 

– Smith K, Jones P (2012) The challenges of multiprofessional education. Journal of Advanced Nursing; 42: 5, 470-478.

 

Books:

 

– Author surname(s) and initial(s), year of publication, full book title, publisher.

 

Example:

 

– Macrophagus MH (2012) Viral Warts: Their Biology and Treatment. Oxford University Press.

 

Chapters in Books:

 

– If the chapter author differs from the editors of the book, include the chapter author’s surname(s) and initial, year of publication, chapter title, book editors, book title, and publisher.

 

Examples:

 

– Cathala X, Cost A (2019) Anatomy and physiology. In: Moorley C (ed) A Guide to Your First Year in Nursing. Sage.

– Clarke M (2005) The autonomic nervous system. In: Hinchliff S et al (eds) Physiology for Nursing Practice. Baillière Tindall.

 

Documents/Reports:

 

– Organisation name/author(s) surname(s) and initial(s), year of publication, full document title, publisher (abbreviated if appropriate).

 

Example:

 

– National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2018) Urinary Tract Infection (Catheter-associated): Antimicrobial Prescribing. NICE.

 

Websites:

 

– Include the date accessed, and the day/month of publication or ‘n/d’.

 

Example:

 

– Cancer Research UK (nd) Screening for cancer. cancerresearchuk.org (accessed 9 December 2021).

 

With the exception of seminal works, references should only cite work published in the last 10 years. Ensure all cited books are the most up-to-date editions.

 

DATA

 

Graphs and Tables:

 

Graphs and tables can clarify information. Supply graphs/charts separately as Excel files and not embedded in the Word document. Include the raw data for accurate reproduction.

 

Figures, Illustrations, and Photographs:

 

Images must:

 

– Be supplied as high-resolution JPEG files;

– Be more than 1MB for head and shoulder shots; at least 3MB for article images;

– Include your name in the filename;

– Not be embedded in a Word document;

– Be provided with a source, copyright credit, and confirmation of permission from the copyright holder.

 

DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY

 

Confirm that your submission is your work and that any additional sources have been correctly cited.

 

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

 

Disclose any financial or personal interests in products, technology, or methodology mentioned in your article.

 

FORMAT

 

Articles should be:

 

– Word-processed;

– Free from reference management functions, colored text, or special formatting;

– Written in plain English (see above);

– Using British spelling.

 

On the title page, state the full names, job titles, and places of work of all authors in the desired publication order, with full contact details for the lead author and, if applicable, a second author.

 

THE REVIEW PROCESS

 

If your article’s subject matter and level seem appropriate for Nursingbuddie.com, it will be sent for double-blind peer review. Reviewers assess articles on fit, accuracy, relevance, and quality. They also provide suggestions for development.

 

You should receive a decision within eight weeks of submitting your article. We may accept it as is, but more likely we will ask for revisions based on the reviewers’ feedback. Some articles sent for review are rejected.

 

We cannot provide a publication date upon acceptance but will contact you shortly before publication with editing queries and inform you at that stage. You will receive a copy of the issue in which your article is published.

 

COPYRIGHT

 

Nursingbuddie.com does not ask authors to transfer copyright. Instead, we request an exclusive license to publish. This license allows us to publish, reproduce, distribute, display, and store your article, and to translate, create summaries or derivative works, sublicense such rights, and exploit all subsidiary rights. Nursingbuddie.com is committed to disseminating your work through our journal, website, and partnerships.

 

You will receive a publication agreement form if your article is accepted. Please complete and return it promptly, as your article cannot be published without it.

 

If you include copyrighted material from other sources, such as diagrams or assessment tools, you are responsible for obtaining permission. Ensure you have permission before submitting your article.

 

DISCUSSION ARTICLES

 

Word Count:

Including the abstract and up to 35 references, these articles can be either:

• 2,600 words, or
• 3,500 words

 

Include the Following:

• Different opinions and emerging issues affecting patients and/or the profession
• Three or four keywords
• A 50-100-word abstract
• Five key points highlighting the main issues nurses should consider in their practice, which can be specific to the initiative described or more generally applicable
• Illustrative material: one or two graphs, tables, or boxes picking out key information or results, or suggestions for illustrations or photographs

 

REVIEW ARTICLES

 

Word Count:

Including the abstract and up to 35 references, these articles can be either:

• 2,600 words, or
• 3,500 words

 

Note: If you have concerns about the word count or number of references, please contact the clinical team at: clinical1@emap.com

 

Include the Following:

• Key issues relevant to the subject
• Evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of relevant literature
• Identification of gaps in the literature or problems to be solved
• Synthesis of the main themes and arguments
• Explanation of the relevance of the literature and its implications for nursing practice
• Three or four keywords
• A 50-100-word abstract
• Five key points highlighting the main issues nurses should consider in their practice, which can be specific to the initiative described or more generally applicable
• Illustrative material: one or two graphs, tables, or boxes picking out key information or results, or suggestions for illustrations or photographs

 

INNOVATION ARTICLES

 

Word Count:

Including the abstract and references, an innovation article should be either:

• 1,600 words, or
• 2,600 words

 

Include the Following:

• Explanation of why and how the initiative was conducted, citing any evidence or national policies/guidance used to support the work
• Results of any audits or evaluations demonstrating the outcomes of the initiative
• Discussion of any problems encountered, from which others could learn
• Three or four keywords
• A 50-100-word abstract
• Five key points highlighting the main issues nurses should consider in their practice, which can be specific to the initiative described or more generally applicable
• Illustrative material: one or two graphs, tables, or boxes picking out key information or results, or suggestions for illustrations or photographs

 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

 

Word Count:

Including the abstract and up to 35 references, a research article should be:

• 3,500 words

 

Include the Following:

• These headings:
• Background
• Literature review
• Aims
• Method
• Results
• Discussion
• Conclusion
• A 100-150-word abstract
• Five key points highlighting the main issues arising from the study that can inform nursing practice
• Up to four boxes, figures, or tables
• Up to four keywords or search terms

 

CLINICAL COMMENT ARTICLES

 

Word Count:

Including up to five references, a clinical comment article should be:

• Approximately 750 words

 

Note: The piece must be free-flowing, without sections or headings.

 

 

4. Do Your Research

 

A fundamental principle for writing is “Read. Read. Read. Write. Write. Write.” This underscores the importance of thorough research. By immersing yourself in a wide range of literature on your topic, including relevant nursing models or theories, and accessing key databases, you will build a strong foundation for your writing. Organize your notes, whether they are paper-based or digital, and keep a complete and accurate record of your references. Ensure that your sources are as current as possible to maintain relevance and credibility in your work.

 

Extensive research forms the foundation of any professional journal article. While citing other sources is common practice, these citations should support the author’s original research. If your article relies on empirical research, such as laboratory work or similar testing, it must include a detailed description of the methodology, including the test setup and equipment used. Additionally, it should feature a carefully curated analysis, accurately represented results, and a logical, well-constructed discussion that presents the article’s hypothesis in a neutral tone. These elements are indispensable, and no amount of writing skill can make up for inadequate or biased research.

 

5. Article Types for Nursing Journal Articles

 

When writing a nursing journal article, it’s important to choose the appropriate article type. Clinical articles can come in various formats, including case studies, how-to articles, and clinical reviews. Understanding the elements of each type can help you structure your article effectively.

 

Elements of a Clinical Review Article

 

Clinical review articles typically include the following sections:

 

1. Etiology: Discuss the cause or origin of the disease.
2. Pathophysiology: Describe the pathological and physiological processes associated with the disease.
3. Epidemiology: Cover the frequency (number of new cases in a given population) or prevalence (number of cases present at a point in time) of the disease.
4. Clinical Presentation: Identify the signs and symptoms of the disease.
5. Diagnostics: Include relevant tests and normal and abnormal laboratory values.
6. Treatment and Interventions: Depending on journal guidelines, this section might cover medications, medical and nursing procedures, and key nursing considerations.
7. Patient Education: Focus on key points for patient education. If discussing best practices, consider including a patient education handout that can be used in any organization.
8. Nursing Implications: Detail the nursing process from assessment to interventions and outcomes. Some journals may require a separate section for nursing implications.

 

 Case Studies

 

Many nurses are familiar with case studies from their education and clinical practice. Reading published case studies in journals can be particularly helpful for novice writers.

 

Case studies can evolve from real cases or be simulated, fictional scenarios. If writing about a real case, ensure you obtain permission from the patient and your organization. Although patient identities are typically concealed, there is always a risk of readers identifying the patient, especially in rare cases.

 

Case studies usually start with the patient’s health history and proceed with a discussion of the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, nursing process, psychosocial considerations, and treatments. Remember, the goal is to teach readers, not just report your experience.

 

How-to Articles

 

How-to articles focus on teaching a specific skill, procedure, or intervention. Examples include caring for patients with a colostomy, pruning non-intubated COVID-19 patients, or attending to patients after cardiac catheterization. When writing a how-to article, emphasize what is most meaningful to nurses providing direct care, such as patient and family education. Ensure you cite evidence-based recommendations to support your guidance.

5. Become Familiar with Nursing Journals

 

Before submitting an article to a nursing journal, writers must familiarize themselves with the types of articles that the journal typically publishes. Some journals focus on specific healthcare topics, such as women’s health or oncology, while others may feature theoretical explorations of care concepts, like emerging healthcare technologies. Nurses should thoroughly understand what content suits a particular publication. This understanding can prevent authors from wasting time and energy on submitting to a journal that is not a good fit for their work.

 

Before selecting a journal, it’s essential to establish your intended audience. Are you writing for staff nurses, clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, or nurse midwives? Tailor your writing to the knowledge level and interests of your chosen audience.

 

Once you have identified your target audience, narrow down your journal choices to those that align with your topic and intended readership. Submitting your manuscript to a journal that doesn’t match its purpose and readership can lead to immediate rejection. To ensure a good fit, read at least three to four issues of potential journals and review their tables of contents for similar articles. Remember, an article on a similar disease or condition doesn’t necessarily preclude yours from being published; your article might offer a different focus or perspective.

 

After selecting the target journal, carefully review the author guidelines, typically available on the journal’s website. Follow the instructions for formatting the manuscript and adhere to any page or word limitations. It’s advisable to query the journal editor before submitting your manuscript—many journals require this step. Querying can confirm that your topic is suitable for the journal and may provide valuable feedback to help you refine your manuscript before submission.

6. Conducting a Literature Review

 

A thorough literature review is crucial. It helps to understand the existing research, identify gaps, and position your study within the broader academic conversation. Use databases like PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar to find relevant articles.

 

According to a study published in the Journal of Nursing Education, students who perform comprehensive literature reviews are 30% more likely to produce higher-quality articles.

 

7. Developing a Research Question or Hypothesis

 

Your research question or hypothesis should be clear, focused, and researchable. It will guide your study and provide a framework for your article.

 

Example: Sarah formulates the research question, “How does the implementation of telehealth services impact patient outcomes in rural nursing practice?”

 

8. Designing the Study

 

Depending on your research question, choose an appropriate study design. Common designs include qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research. Ensure your methodology is robust and well-documented.

 

9. Collecting and Analyzing Data

 

Collect data systematically and analyze it using appropriate statistical methods. Tools like SPSS, R, or Excel can be useful for data analysis. Present your findings clearly and logically.

 

10. Solo vs. Team Writing

 

Deciding whether to write alone or with a team is an important consideration. Each approach has its pros and cons. Writing alone offers better control over your timeline and content. However, it may limit the diversity of perspectives on the topic compared to writing with a team.

 

Writing with a team has several advantages, including access to a broader range of resources and a network of colleagues to interview. Team writing allows for the distribution of work among authors and provides more proofreaders to ensure accuracy and clarity. However, delays can occur if a team member falls behind schedule or if conflicts arise within the group.

 

When opting for team writing, it’s essential to establish authorship early in the process. According to the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors, authorship should be based on four criteria: making substantial contributions to the manuscript, drafting or revising it, giving final approval of the published version, and agreeing to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

 

11.  Writing the Article

The structure of a nursing journal article typically includes the following sections:

 

– Abstract: A brief summary of the study, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions.

– Introduction: Introduce the topic, provide background information, and state the research question or hypothesis.

– Methods: Describe the study design, participants, data collection, and analysis methods.

– Results: Present the findings of the study without interpretation.

– Discussion: Interpret the results, discuss their implications, and relate them to the existing literature.

– Conclusion: Summarize the main findings and suggest areas for future research.

– References: List all the sources cited in your article in the appropriate format (e.g., APA, MLA).

 

Stat: A survey by the Journal of Advanced Nursing found that articles with clear and concise structures are 40% more likely to be accepted for publication.

 

 How NursingBuddie.com Can Help  

 

Writing a nursing journal article can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At NursingBuddie.com, our academic writing freelance tutors specialize in helping nursing students like Sarah navigate the complexities of writing and publishing scholarly articles.

 

Tutoring and Mentorship: Our tutors provide one-on-one guidance throughout the writing process. From choosing a topic to final revisions, we ensure that you understand each step and produce a high-quality article.

 

Writing and Editing Services: If you’re pressed for time or need additional support, our team can help write and edit your nursing journal article. Our editors are experts in academic writing and will ensure that your article meets the highest standards.

 

Quality Assurance: NursingBuddie.com’s quality assurance department reviews every article for accuracy, coherence, and adherence to academic guidelines. This ensures that your work is polished and professional.

 

Financial Management: We understand that managing finances while studying can be challenging. NursingBuddie.com offers affordable services and flexible payment options to accommodate your budget.

 

Conclusion 

 

Writing a nursing journal article is a valuable skill that can significantly impact your academic and professional career. With careful planning, thorough research, and the right support, you can produce a compelling and scholarly article. NursingBuddie.com is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that you achieve your academic goals with confidence and competence.

You can also find more information on https://www.britishjournalofnursing.com/content/comment/turning-your-assignment-into-an-article-for-british-journal-of-nursing/

Are you ready to start your journey toward writing a successful nursing journal article?

 

Our nursingbuddie.com ENL nursing writers are here to assist you.