Assessment of Research Performance during COVID-19 Pandemic among Nursing Researchers

The purpose of this study was to assess the research performance during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic among nursing researchers. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted for Korean Society of Adult Nursing where 103 subjects participated from April 15 to May 14, 2021. The survey tool developed by researchers had 32 items including difficulties in performing research activities, perception of the impact of COVID-19 on research validity, and three open-ended questions. Results: In the research planning phase, 88 subjects (90.7%) reported difficulties in the recruitment plan and 83 subjects (89.3%) reported difficulties selecting a research design. In the recruitment and data collection phase, 85 subjects (88.6%) had difficulties accessing data collection site and 78 subjects (85.7%) had difficulties in face-to-face data collection. In the provision of intervention phase (for experimental study), 26 subjects (66.7%) reported that they should have changed the method of delivery of intervention. In research administration and manpower management, 62 subjects (75.6%) reported difficulties in face-to-face meeting. In research outcome management, 65 subjects (85.5%) reported that they should have changed the way of research-related events. Lastly, 80 subjects (81.6%) perceived that difficulties caused by COVID-19 impacted research validity. Conclusion: Majority of participants perceived that the difficulties in research activities may decrease research validity. To ensure research quality during COVID-19 pandemic, we should recognize potential threats to research validity and actively pursue adaptable innovations of research designs and data collection methods.