How to Write a Nursing Discussion Paper
Most people don’t enjoy arguing, and that might be why students often struggle with writing discussion papers, also known as argumentative essays.
Are you seeking advice on crafting a well-written nursing discussion paper? You’re in luck because this article provides all the information you need about this type of paper.
Writing a discussion paper is an effective way to present arguments in written form.
You pick a debatable topic, take a stance in the debate, and then explain your viewpoint throughout your essay.
Wondering how to do that?
Let’s dive into learning how to write a discussion paper for research purposes.
What is a Discussion Paper?
A discussion paper is a form of academic writing where you choose a topic and take a side. It involves arguing an issue using research and supporting facts. Another name for a discussion paper is an argumentative essay. In the field of nursing, for instance, you might write a Nursing Argumentative Essay that tackles issues like Nursing Ethics or Healthcare Policies.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Nursing Discussion Paper
Plan Your Discussion Paper
Understand the Question
Carefully read and comprehend the assignment your instructor has given you. Look up any unfamiliar terms or words to fully grasp the question. If your assignment is about a particular Nursing Research Paper topic or Healthcare Research Paper, make sure you understand the key concepts involved, like Evidence-Based Nursing or Nursing Ethics. Determine what the problem is. If you’re having trouble understanding the question, don’t hesitate to ask your professor for help. Whenever the question isn’t clear, consulting your professor or instructor is a good idea.
Research Your Topic
If the subject is unfamiliar to you, research it to gain a better understanding. If your textbook covers the topic, start there. Alternatively, conduct online research using reliable sources that represent different sides of the debate. For a Research-Based Nursing Paper, look for credible studies and nursing research topics that align with the subject.
Ask your instructor if you can use lecture notes as primary sources if your paper is based on a class discussion. Look for trustworthy news sources and websites with “.edu” or “.gov” domains. As you gather sources for your Nursing Research Paper Outline, focus on relevant evidence that supports your stance.
Choose a Stance
After reading about all sides, carefully select the position you want to take. Write down your chosen stance at the beginning of a paper page or a word processor document to use as the basis for your outline. For instance, when debating Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing, you might argue in favor of a specific ethical approach in nursing practice.
Identify Key Points
Think back to your initial reading after choosing a side. What key arguments led you to that conclusion? These arguments will become the main points of your paper. Use a numbering system to mark your main thoughts on paper. In a relatively short Nursing Research Paper, you may focus on 3 to 4 main themes related to the topic. For example, in a Nursing Ethics Discussion Paper, these might include patient autonomy, confidentiality, and ethical decision-making.
Gather Supporting Research
Now it’s time to dive deeper into your research for the discussion paper. Head to the library or use the academic resources available at your institution. Look for credible sources that can support your claims, especially Evidence-Based Nursing studies or Healthcare Research Papers that reflect the current state of healthcare issues.
Take notes as you go, including proper citations. You can either write them down or use a computer. Keep track of relevant information as you study from various sources. Include the reference number next to each note or citation, and remember to include the title of the book or article in the page header.
Build Your Outline
After taking notes, add 3 to 4 key supporting points beneath each main concept. Add supporting details and research notes to each core idea to make it stand on its own. This forms the foundation for the discussion in your research paper. For example, if one of your main arguments is “Uncontrolled migration increases diversity,” some supporting reasons could be “Introduces new cultures” and “Brings contemporary ideas.” Use examples from your research to further explain each point and take notes.
Writing the Discussion Section of Your Research Paper
Starting Your Discussion Paper
Begin with a Hook
Start with an anecdote or a quotation to capture the reader’s attention. A hook is a technique used to intrigue readers in an essay. You might, for instance, use a quote from someone who shares your viewpoint in a debate essay. If your paper addresses a topic such as Debating Healthcare Issues in Nursing, you might start with a compelling fact or statistic from the latest NCLEX Exam Papers to draw the reader in.
Introduce Your Topic
After sharing an anecdote or a brief story, introduce the central theme of your essay to let readers know where you’re headed. Before presenting your thesis, give a fair overview of all sides of the argument.
For example, you could say, “Immigration in healthcare is a contentious issue. Some argue it strains resources, while others believe it enhances the nation’s workforce.” This introduction could serve as a springboard for writing a Nursing Research Paper on healthcare policy issues.
Present Your Thesis
Following your transitional sentences, present a more focused thesis statement that outlines what you’ll argue. You might also add a few sentences to give readers an idea of your main arguments. In a Nursing Argumentative Essay, this could be a position on issues such as patient care or the role of nurses in healthcare reform.
Writing the Body of Your Discussion Paper
Focus on One Idea per Paragraph
Structure your paragraphs based on your outline to keep your essay organized. Each main theme in a brief essay can be supported by one paragraph. If your paper is longer, consider dedicating a paragraph to each bullet point under the main themes. When writing your Nursing Paper, remember to maintain clarity in your writing and ensure that each section logically supports the next. 
Address the Opposing Viewpoint
Presenting the opposing viewpoint and explaining how it differs from your stance is an effective way to present your argument. Introduce the opposing view using a counterclaim, then elaborate on why you believe your perspective is stronger. In the context of a Healthcare Argumentative Essay, you may need to address controversial views on patient safety or healthcare policies. You could also explore Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing and how they impact clinical practice.
Back Up Your Ideas
As you support the discussion section of your research paper, cite references in your statements. Not every sentence needs a citation, but every key idea borrowed from another source should be cited. For instance, in a Research-Based Nursing Paper, you might refer to a recent study or evidence supporting your argument. Nursing Paper Structure is crucial in making sure all sources are properly cited in a format required by your institution.
Concluding Your Discussion Paper
After writing the introduction and body paragraphs, it’s time to conclude your research paper’s discussion. Summarize everything you’ve discussed in the body paragraphs. Restate your thesis statement and avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. Your essay’s conclusion should include a recommendation, a call to action, or a concluding statement.
If you’re writing a Nursing Research Paper on a healthcare-related topic, your conclusion might focus on how evidence-based practices can improve patient outcomes or enhance nursing ethics.
Proofread and Edit Your Discussion Paper
Once you’ve completed your first draft, carefully review your essay. Read it through to see if it flows logically. Does one idea lead to the next? If not, make revisions by adding transitional phrases. If your discussion paper is related to Nursing Ethics or Clinical Practice and Research, clarity is essential to communicating your position effectively.
Once you have the flow down, reread it to catch any errors or grammatical mistakes. Reading it aloud can be helpful as it forces you to slow down and focus on each word.
In a Nutshell
Writing a discussion paper is a way of presenting arguments in writing. Understand your assignment’s instructions. Plan your essay, write the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Afterward, edit your discussion paper to ensure a smooth flow. If you need assistance with writing a Nursing Research Paper or any other academic essay, reach out to professional services for help with Nursing Paper Writing Guide or Nursing Academic Writing Strategies.
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