Research strategies that result in optimal data collection from the patient medical record

Received 27 August 2009; received in revised form 1 February 2010; accepted 3 February 2010. published online 12 April 2010.
Corrected Proof

Abstract

Data obtained from the patient medical record are often a component of clinical research led by nurse investigators. The rigor of the data collection methods correlates to the reliability of the data and, ultimately, the analytical outcome of the study. Research strategies for reliable data collection from the patient medical record include the development of a precise data collection tool, the use of a coding manual, and ongoing communication with research staff.

a W.F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA

b Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

c Joseph M. Smith Community Health Center, Allston, MA 02134 USA

Corresponding author. Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA. Tel.: +1 617 552 4886(Office), +1 781 777 1257(Home); fax: +1 617 552 0745.

PII: S0897-1897(10)00009-1

doi:10.1016/j.apnr.2010.02.004