AARC.org In the News

Protocol Helps RTs Begin Research Projects

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January 31, 2013

While heated high flow nasal cannulas have grown in popularity for patients in all care settings, robust evidence is lacking in documenting its effectiveness, safety, and clinical outcomes. As a result, the AARC is encouraging RTs to engage in clinical research with this technology.

Funded in part through an unrestricted grant from Tri-anim, the AARC has created an IRB research protocol with the hope that clinicians using this technology will take the next step of engaging in research. “We understand that not all clinicians are experienced researchers,” says Steve Nelson; Associate Executive Director of the AARC. “Our hope is that through the creation of this protocol, novice researchers will be more apt to take the next step to initiate research in their institution.”

Vetted by a 3rd party IRB, this protocol is customizable to any institution and can be easily manipulated to change study objectives, design, hypothesis etc. Or, institutions can use the protocol in its entirety if they feel it appropriate. Words written in red are areas where you may want to customize it for your institution.

“At the end of the day, we hope therapists will engage in research, present their findings at an AARC Congress Open Forum, and submit a manuscript to RESPIRATORY CARE”, says Nelson. “Armed with improved scientific evidence, it is our hope that respiratory therapists will better understand this technology and the true impact it has on patients.”

To learn more, watch the video below as AARC Associate Executive Director, Doug Laher provides a more comprehensive overview of the IRB template and how you can use it in your institution.