title: A practical field guide to conducting nursing research in low- and middle-income countries.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this report is to offer practical guidance to nurse investigators interested in international research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Lessons learned and strategies for planning and implementing an international research project are addressed.
  
  
  METHODS
  Four nurse researchers who conducted studies in diverse international settings (Argentina, India, South Africa, and Tanzania) describe their collective experiences regarding study planning and implementation; data collection using a variety of methods; and cultural, contextual and ethical considerations.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Nurses who undertake international health research projects, particularly in LMICs, can face unique challenges and opportunities. Recommendations for success include advance planning, remaining flexible, having a backup plan, cultivating an attitude of curiosity and cultural humility, establishing collaborative and respectful partnerships, and budgeting adequate time.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Nurse scientists often receive little training and support to conduct international research. Guidance to undertake research projects in LMICs can build capacity for nurses to make significant contributions to global health.
authors.affiliation: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA; University of Massachusetts, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Boston, MA. Electronic address: virginia_lebaron@dfci.harvard.edu.
authors.forename: Virginia T
authors.initials: VT
authors.lastname: LeBaron
authors.affiliation: Columbia University, School of Nursing, New York, NY.
authors.forename: Sarah J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Iribarren
authors.affiliation: University of Utah, Biomedical Informatics, Salt Lake City, UT.
authors.forename: Seneca
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Perri
authors.affiliation: University of Utah, College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, UT.
authors.forename: Susan L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Beck
mesh_terms: D001118:Argentina; D016494:Computer Security; D003219:Confidentiality; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003469:Culture; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods; D003906:Developing Countries; D032984:Ethics, Research; D014943:Global Health; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D007258:Informed Consent; D015399:Nursing Research / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018907:Privacy; D035842:Research Subjects; D012109:Research Support as Topic; D012449:Safety; D013019:South Africa; D013636:Tanzania; D014175:Translating
keywords: Developing countries; Global health; International research; Low- and middle-income countries; Nursing; Research methods