Abstract
AIM: Explore the perspectives of Clinical Academic Nurses and stakeholders on strategies for positioning Clinical Academic Nurses in Dutch hospitals. DESIGN: A descriptive qualitative study. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with Clinical Academic Nurses and stakeholders from five hospitals involved in the positioning of Clinical Academic Nurses. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify strategies for positioning these nurses. RESULTS: Four themes emerged: (1) 'Supportive vision and culture' is crucial for a shared vision and enables a culture for consistent support in the positioning, (2) A clear defined and strategic 'Position of Clinical Academic Nurses' is needed for uniform positioning, (3) 'Research infrastructure' describes the important supportive elements, and (4) 'Leadership' describes Clinical Academic Nurses' pioneering role in aligning research with organisational goals which strengthens their position. CONCLUSION: Positioning Clinical Academic Nurses in hospitals requires a vision, well-defined positions, a research infrastructure, and leadership support. Long-term strategic investments are needed to integrate research into clinical nursing practice and recognise Clinical Academic Nurses as strategic assets. IMPLICATIONS FOR POLICY AND PRACTICE: Positioning Clinical Academic Nurses requires visionary leadership, institutional commitment and investment in research infrastructure. The Nurse Advisory Board should support this by aligning positioning, support and evaluation with strategic policies. Strategic hospital-academic partnerships foster research, education, mentorship and grant support. Clinical Academic Nurses should set measurable goals, proactively align research with clinical priorities and increase visibility to advance nursing practice. IMPACT: This study identifies empirically grounded insights into strategies to position Clinical Academic Nurses and offers actionable insights for management, policymakers and Clinical Academic Nurses to strengthen knowledge infrastructure and improve patient care. REPORTING METHOD: COREQ. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Limited patient and public involvement, focusing on feedback on preliminary results.