<![CDATA[Introduction: Clinical nurses are increasingly expected to engage in research and evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes, care quality, and clinical decision-making. However, research readiness among clinical nurses remains inconsistently defined and measured, particularly in hospital settings. This scoping review aimed to map the conceptualization, dimensions, and measurement of research readiness among clinical nurses in hospital settings. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and reported using PRISMA-ScR. The protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect in March 2026. Eligible studies included English-language publications from 2016 to 2026 that examined research readiness or related constructs, including research capacity, research competence, research engagement, organizational readiness, and evidence-based practice readiness among nurses or healthcare professionals relevant to nursing practice. Study selection was managed using Covidence. Data were extracted using a structured matrix and synthesized descriptively and thematically. Results: Fifteen studies were included. Four themes were identified: conceptualization, dimensions, measurement and assessment, and barriers and facilitators of research readiness. Research readiness was conceptualized as a multidimensional and multilevel construct involving individual capability, organizational support, and behavioral research engagement. Measurement approaches varied, with most studies assessing related constructs rather than research readiness directly. Common barriers included workload, limited time, insufficient research skills, lack of mentorship, and weak organizational support. Conclusion: Further conceptual refinement and context-sensitive measurement tools are needed to strengthen research readiness among clinical nurses.]]>
