| Learning Objective #1: Describe two challenges faced by collaborative researchers based in educational and clinical institutions | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Name two important institutional policy considerations to incorporate when planning collaborative research endeavors |
This presentation describes key lessons learned from the implementation of a collaborative research initiative between a university College of Nursing and an unaffiliated teaching hospital. The driving force behind the collaborative initiative is the application and translation of knowledge for clinical practice. Strong relationships between education, research and practice are needed now more than ever, but roadblocks remain to our achieving progress even using a traditional partnership that should have the processes figured out by now. The partnership framework (academia and hospital) is not a new idea, but the reality presents different challenges today due to increased emphasis on outcomes from both institutions. For instance, we failed to provide a "warm up phase" to nurture collaborative relationships and infrastructures. Because of the lack of preparation time, the initiative did not catapult a small study into a RO-1 quickly. The increased emphasis on extramural dollars in academia prevented faculty from having the time and energy to mentor and support clinical colleagues interested in learning research methods. Likewise, the clinical pressures of the nursing shortage made it more challenging for clinical nurses to engage in the research process. Each party must come to the table and stick to their respective area of expertise. Negotiation must occur quickly over difficulties encountered, and learning curves are not well tolerated. Ownership of data becomes an issue as university sponsored projects offices want clear pathways to patents and copyrights while clinical agencies are protective of patient information. Multiple IRB clearances, HIPPA regulations and an increased emphasis on security make the access to subjects/data very challenging.. These roadblocks frequently delay research and lower the morale of the team. Leading the research team is a task that falls on investigators that may not have resources to devote to team leadership skills required to rally a geographically dispersed group.
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