A translational research framework for nurse practitioners

Aims This study aims to explore a proposed translational research continuum for nurse practitioners. Background Nurse practitioners are acknowledged as clinical leaders responsible for transforming health care delivery. It is important that nurse practitioners contribute to health care knowledge using scientific processes for the implementation of evidence‐based practice and evaluation of outcomes of interventions for their patient groups. Evaluation This paper provides a review of translational research literature including implementation science to align nurse practitioner activities to a modified translational research framework. Key Issues A translational research framework has the potential to strengthen nursing research in the nurse practitioner role. Adapting an accepted translational research continuum for nurse practitioners places the clinical nursing leaders in an equitable research position with all health care professionals. Implications for Nursing Management The translational research continuum provides nursing management with a structure to benchmark nursing research. The continuum applies a modern research framework to support research engagement for the nurse practitioner role.