Evidence-based practice (EBP) in schools requires that school nurses conscientiously use the best current evidence in making decisions regarding student health. Translational research, in turn, helps fill the gap between health knowledge production and its utilization in clinical practices. The MASNRN (Massachusetts School Nurse Research Network) is a Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN) born out of a recognized need by the school nurse constituency for translational research to ensure that SN practice is evidence-based, clinically efficacious, and cost-effective. MASNRN, is one of only a few nurse-led PBRNs in the country and the first dedicated to school nursing practice. This collaborative effort of a professional organization, a state public health department, and a university leverages the resources and talents that no one organization could provide alone for a “start-up” PBRN with no initial infusion of capital. Only in existence for one year, it currently has over 100 members representing over 60 school districts statewide, grant funding of over $80,000 that support two ongoing projects (i.e., student asthma and interprofessional collaboration, bullying prevention for students with disabilities) with another $150,000 pending for an additional three projects. This presentation will describe the MASNRN’s, organizational structure, communications network, translational research process, and conceptual model for building evidence for school nursing practice and student health. Because the PBRN framework is readily adaptable to numerous community-based nursing groups, the steps needed to establish a PBRN, federal sources for network support, and creative funding opportunities all will be reviewed.

See more of Implementing Evidence-Based Practice: Research Testing Initiatives
See more of The 17th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice (19-22 July 2006)