Legal norms and requirements for competencies for research activities of nurses and midwives in Bulgaria

General Medicine, 2023, 25(3), 28-34.

M. Saleva, M. Draganova, A. Seizov, S. Alexandrova-Yankulovska, A. Anov, A. Seizov

Department of Health Care Management, Medical Ethics and Information Technologies, Faculty of Public Health, MU ‒ Pleven

Abstract. The international experience in the development of the research activity of nurses and midwives is best expressed in the creation of organizational structures and the development of official documents related to the training for this activity and the conduct of scientific research in health care. The development of research capacity and evidence-based practice and innovation are one of the WHO global strategic goals for both professions. The purpose of the study was to analyze the regulatory norms and requirements in Bulgaria, regulating competencies for scientific research of nurses and midwives, and through which the provision of high-quality and science-based health care for the community is guaranteed. Material and methods: A content analysis was carried out with a questionnaire on normative and official documents that are related to the training and practice of the two professions. Results and discussion: In all documents on the activities of the graduated nurses and midwives, specific activities related to conducting scientific studies are regulated. Areas of research are also defined. An inconsistency with the curricula was found, where a mandatory discipline for these competencies is not included. The accrediting body of the training also has established criteria for students‘ participation in scientific projects, which also require relevant knowledge and skills. Conclusion: Legal regulation of scientific activity in health care is in accordance with international and European documents, but further legislative changes are needed regarding training for this activity. Awareness of the fact that the basic health care provided must be scientifically based and improved through scientific research is the responsibility of nurses and midwives to society to ensure high quality care.

Key words: research, nurses, midwives, legal norms, competencies

Address for correspondence: Assist. prof. Milena Saleva, e-mail: msaleva@abv.bg