Addressing Potential Researcher Distress in Nurse-Led Research: Ethical Considerations and Practical Strategies.

Aims: To discuss the need for nurse researchers to consider to the potential for psychological distress when conducting studies on sensitive topics.

Design: Discursive paper.

Methods: Drawing from existing literature, we highlight the ethical obligations of researchers to recognise and manage their emotional responses, especially as these can potentially lead to burnout and re-traumatization. In this paper, we propose practical strategies to mitigate these risks, including trauma-informed practices, peer support systems, structured mentorship and the establishment of vicarious trauma (VT) plans.

Conclusion: Prioritising researcher well-being in nursing research is essential for ethical practices and the mental health of those involved in undertaking research in sensitive areas.

Implications For The Profession And/or Patient Care: Support strategies, such as formal team debriefings, resilience training, VT plans and peer support, can foster safer and healthier research environments, when researching in sensitive areas.