Writing for publication: A practical Six Step Approach

There is a tendency amongst nurses in clinical practice to view writing for publication as something beyond their requisite. However, as UK nurses in particular move towards an all graduate profession, the need for clinical nurses to nurture a culture of writing is becoming more evident. Apart from an opportunity to share best orthopaedic and trauma nursing practice and innovation, writing for publication can also provide personal satisfaction and professional growth.The aim of this article is to inspire and encourage new authors in clinical practice to write for publication. The authors outline a practical Six Step Approach to act as signposts towards creating that first publishable journal article. This includes the need to read as preparation for writing, selecting an appropriate journal, planning and structuring the work as well as what happens after submission of the publication. The article also includes practical tips that will help the clinical practitioner to remain focused and committed towards writing for publication.