Issue link: https://ahint.epubxp.com/i/619494
1 2 | T H E C O N N E C T I O N • W I N T E R 2 0 1 6 I n the current evidence-based practice (EBP) environment, clinical nurses may be called upon to write a research proposal for an independent study, research translation project or grant funding opportunity. Clinical research is a systematic process of data gathering to answer clinical questions with the goal of improving care processes or patient outcomes. 1 This process is a series of decisions and steps that include choosing the research design to answer the specific research question being posed, selecting appropriate data-collection methods, analyzing the data and disseminating findings to a pertinent audience. 2 The research proposal is a clear, concise and succinct articulation of the specific processes and procedures that will guide a research project. A strong proposal provides evidence of the quality, strength and ethical soundness of a proposed project and is necessary when seeking institutional or grant support and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. The proposal also serves as an implementation guide for project team members. 3 Overview of Proposal Components There are a few main elements of a research proposal and each area should contain just enough detail so that reviewers can adequately assess the quality of the study. Title — The title should clearly and concisely describe the study. Variables of interest and study design should be contained within it. Abstract — The abstract is typically a 150-300 word paragraph that provides an overview of the background and significance of the problem, study aims, research question or hypothesis, design and methods, outcome variables, F E A T U R E Guide for Preparing a Research Proposal Elizabeth Danells Chin, PhD, RN • Assistant Professor of Nursing University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, MA E d u c a t i o n aahfn.org/educationcenter " A strong proposal provides evidence of the quality, strength and ethical soundness of a proposed project and is necessary when seeking institutional or grant support and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. "