Propensity-matched comparisons of factors negatively affecting research activities during the COVID-19 pandemic between nursing researchers working in academic and clinical settings in Japan.

aimTo determine the factors associated with reduced research activities during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 by comparing nursing researchers working in academic and clinical settings.

methodsThis was a secondary analysis of data collected by the Japan Academy of Nursing Sciences, which conducted a cross-sectional online survey when the pandemic began. We included respondents who worked in either academic or clinical settings and responded that the pandemic negatively affected their research activities. First, we computed a propensity score (PS) using a logistic regression model. Then we performed a one-to-one ratio matching between the groups based on the PS to control imbalances between the groups. We identified the factors negatively affecting research activities and who to consult about research concerns by comparing the groups using Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests.

resultsThere were 1,532 participants, with a response rate of 16.1%. After PS matching, 214 participants (107 for each group) were included. We identified three significant factors associated with reduced research activities: (i) time required for learning new information and communication technology (ICT) skills; (ii) time required for supporting colleagues with ICT issues; and (iii) time required for preparing and evaluating teaching materials. Approximately 20% of our participants in both settings had nobody to consult regarding research concerns.

conclusionWe found that the time spent on ICT-related issues negatively affected the research activities of nursing researchers when the pandemic began in Japan. In such an emergency, nursing researchers needed an opportunity to share their difficulties as a part of a support service.