Nursing research is systematic inquiry that aims to develop and refine existing nursing knowledge and practices. It helps nurses answer questions about patient care, education, and administration. Research ensures practices are evidence-based rather than tradition-based. Nursing research can be conducted in education, administration, and patient care. It is important for maintaining professionalism, autonomy, accountability, and developing critical thinking and new techniques in nursing. Some key goals of nursing research are to increase knowledge in the field, build evidence for nursing practices, and contribute to public health.