Role confusion for the nurse researcher

The purpose of this paper is to consider the tensions between professional practice and doctoral research. The researcher (a registered mental health nurse) identified and managed tensions arising from research undertaken as part of a PhD study. The research explored Service Users’ experience of using Crisis Resolution Home Treatment (CRHT). It was conducted using a semi-structured interview process, and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach. Resulting reflections offered the opportunity for the researcher to both develop as a researcher and to gain greater understanding of the role of nurse. Separating the roles was a crucial element of this process.