Writing a Successful Grant

8/14/2019 Writing a Successful Grant

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Writing a Successful

AACN

Grant Proposal


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Writing A Successful AACN Grant Proposal

PURPOSE

The purpose of this document is to providenovice researchers with essential informationregarding grant proposal writing. It providesgeneral and specific information on how toprepare AACN grant applications for bothresearch studies and performance improvementprojects. It is based on the criteria and grantsubmission guidelines of the AmericanAssociation of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

AACN awards several small and large grants forresearch that is relevant to critical care nursingpractice. Grants in the small grant programrange from $500 - $1,500. Grants in the large

grant program range from $5,000 - $100,000.

A list of the various grants funded by AACN canbe found on the AACN Web site at:www.aacn.org>membership>grants>AACNGrants in Support of Clinical Projects andResearch. Or the brochure can be obtainedthrough AACN customer service by calling 800-889-2226 and requesting item #1013.

INTRODUCTION

Various agencies provide financial support for

nursing research. These include the federalgovernment, national and local foundations,industry such as Philips Medical Systems,specialty nursing organizations as the AACN,and Sigma Theta Tau International. Localchapters of organizations are good sources offunding for novice researchers.

Research studies and performanceimprovement projects are expensive and time-intensive. A successful grant application is onethat is approved and funded. Good writing skillsand scholarship are critical. Because many

funding agencies are overloaded withapplications, poor proposals are quickly andeasily eliminated. On the other hand, reviewerswill search for an application with outstandingqualities that set it apart from other proposals.

Grant writing skills, like clinical expertise, are notan innate talent. These skills are developed andsharpened through active and continued

participation in the research process. Carefuladherence to the guidelines and suggestions inthis booklet should enhance your grant-writing

abilities and increase your probability ofreceiving a favorable review from a peer-reviewpanel.

Preparing a grant application requires adequatetime for studying, thinking, and writing. Theexact amount depends on such factors as theauthor's personality, writing style, and number ofother personal and professional commitments.Allow at least 6 months to prepare theapplication. This provides time to optimizeopportunities and critically refine ideas. Even awell-written application will not be successful if

the quality of the science is poor and theproposed methods are unsound. See AppendixA to view an example of a schedule for writing aresearch grant proposal (this timeline can alsobe amended to accommodate a performanceimprovement proposal).

What Is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a detailed plan of actionfor scientific inquiry. It clearly and systematicallypresents the research problem, indicates thesignificance of the problem, and delineates the

specific methods and procedures that will beused to answer the research question or test theresearch hypotheses. It also provides atimetable or outline for conducting the study anddetails the estimated cost of the investigation. Itis written as a preliminary step in the researchprocess. It synthesizes current knowledge,indicates gaps in knowledge, and specifies aplan to address the problem.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

The purpose of a grant application is to convince

the funding agency of the merits of yourresearch project and secure the agency'sfinancial backing. Most agencies maintain apanel of peer reviewers who decide whichapplications will be funded. Members of thepanel are selected because of their competencein particular research areas and in the researchprocess. They review each application anddetermine its scientific merit and the potential

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clinical significance or outcomes of the proposedresearch.

A successful proposal shows a link between themission of the funding agency and the proposedresearch; is specific and scientifically rigorous;

and adheres to the instructions and guidelinesprovided by the funding agency, includingtechnical requirements such as page limits anddeadlines for submission. Other goals to strivefor include

Logical organization and internalconsistency

Clearly stated aims, significance, andmethods

Clear, concise writing style Originality and incorporation of new

ideas

Focused plan of research Evidence of knowledge of relevant

published work.

In addition, be sure the time and level of effortproposed for the research are adequate andinclude a discussion of potential pitfalls andlimitations.

Significance of the Proposed ResearchProblem

The first step in developing a proposal is to

determine a source that grants funds in areasrelevant to the research topic. In other words,match the topic to the funding agency. Specialtynursing organizations often specify the types ofproposals they will fund. Annual reports of anorganization may list research projects it hasfunded. In most instances, the significance ofthe proposed study must be related to theenhancement of nursing practice in the specialtyarea. For example, grant applications submittedto the Emergency Nurses Association mustspecify the significance of the proposedresearch to emergency care nursing. Keep such

requirements in mind when explaining studyrationale and background.

Clearly indicate the need or gap in nursingknowledge that your research will fill anddescribe how the results might influence nursingpractice in that specialty. Most fundingorganizations provide assistance or consultationto determine if a proposed investigation matches

their interests. Some organizations publishresearch priorities that reflect significantproblems pertinent to the organizations'specialties. If you are aware of these priorities,you can target and highlight how your researchis consistent with them.

Scientific Logic or Internal Consistency

Establishing and maintaining a chain of scientificlogic, or internal consistency is crucial. This isbest accomplished by developing a proposalthat adheres to the goals of scientific writing: it issimple, lucid, and brief. Research questions orhypotheses are derived from a review ofrelevant literature. The objectives of yourresearch must be consistent with thehypotheses or research questions, and eachhypothesis or research question must havecorresponding procedures for collection and

analysis of data. That is, the techniques forcollecting and analyzing data must be consistentwith the study's purpose and proposed level ofmeasurement.

Strategies for developing a research proposalthat has internal consistency and clarity includethe following:

Make a detailed outline of the proposedstudy, and submit the outline tocolleagues and research experts forcritique and feedback.

Address the issues raised by colleaguesand experts and revise your proposal asneeded.

Put the revised proposal aside for awhile to establish a degree of criticalobjectivity and then reread it. Revise itagain if needed.

Have a research expert read the finalversion before you submit theapplication to the funding agency.

Novelty and Originality

The basis of a successful application is a goodresearch idea. Reviewers look for proposals thathave a new or interesting perspective on a topic.The research does not have to be a first in itsfield, but it should not simply repeat existingwork. The exception to this would be a freshlook at existing work that has considerablelimitations or weaknesses. For example, for apublished study based on a small sized sample,

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repeating the study with a larger sample size, asample with expanded characteristics, or a newtype of sample (e.g., a different age group)might be indicated.

A complete review of the literature is essential

so that the benefit of previous work can beincluded. Synthesize the knowledge in the areaand build on it. Address limitations of previouswork, or, on the basis of new insights, refocusefforts in a new direction.

Style and Technical Details of the Proposal

Pay close attention to all instructions andguidelines. Although specifications for style andformat may vary according to the fundingagency, these requirements must be followedexactly. Any deviation may result in the proposal

being penalized or returned without review. Thefollowing are some general guidelines:

Type or print out the proposal single ordouble-spaced (depending on thefunding agency), with at least 1-inmargins, on standard-sized paper (8 1/2 11 in).

Use white space to lighten the text.Avoid solid massive blocks of print thatrepel rather than invite reading. Choosea font that is easy to read and of

appropriate size (e.g., 12 points). Do notuse a minuscule-sized font in an attemptto squeeze more words into the spaceallowed. Legibility is important.

Make the proposal readable and easy toglance through. Use punctuation,underlining, spacing, paragraphing,diagrams, flowcharts, tables, and otherdevices to command the reader's eye.

Organize the grant according to thespecifications of the funding agency. Be

sure the structure of the proposal isclear and logical. Use headings andsubheadings to direct reviewerssmoothly through the proposal's content.Make it easy for reviewers to find theessential substance within certain partsof the outline. Do not force them to readthe entire text if they are familiar with thetopic.

Be sure each page of the proposal hasthe same general appearance.Photocopied pages from otherproposals or a biographical sketchphotocopied from a previous submissionmight give reviewers the impression that

you do not take the project seriouslyenough to provide up-to-dateinformation.

Carefully read and follow all directionsprovided in the application packet sentout by the funding agency. In particular,note any specifics about the requirednumber of pages; organizationalassurances or letters of access;administrative approvals; number ofcopies; deadline dates (date for receiptor postmark date); and required sections

for the proposal.

If your proposal is too long to fit in thenumber of pages allowed, evaluate it todetermine which information (e.g.,detailed protocols for data collection,study timetable, budget or fiscalconsiderations) might be moved to anappendix.

If directions are not specified in theapplication packet, contact theprospective funding agency for

guidelines. If specific guidelines cannotbe provided, the outline in this bookletshould be sufficient. If necessary, clarifyspecific guidelines with a contact personat the target, funding agency. Make sureyou have an up-to-date application form.

Keep your proposal within the limitationsimposed by the target, funding agency.For example, do not include appendixesif the agency prohibits them. Provideonly the information necessary forreviewers to understand the proposed

research.

Sharpen the proposal by replacingvague or misleading words or phraseswith uncomplicated, direct, persuasivelanguage. Use action words (verbs) andsimple sentences. Simplify sentences tocommunicate your ideas better. Avoidusing passive verbs.

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Proofread the proposal carefully beforesubmitting it. Check spelling, grammar,and references for errors. Look forconsistency in the use of terms and verbtenses.

SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

Specific guidelines for research grantapplications vary between funding agencies, butseveral components are standard. Theseinclude the cover letter; grant application form;abstract; specific aims; significance; methodsand timetable; ethical review; budget; andreferences.

Cover Letter

The cover letter includes the title and content of

the research proposal, the name of the grantapplied for, the name and affiliation of theinvestigator, and any other information requiredfor submission (e.g., applicant's eligibility formembership in an organization or otherqualifications). Address the cover letter to thecontact person at the funding agency or, in lieuof a contact person, the head of the agency ordepartment. A well-written cover letter helps theagency direct the application to reviewers whoseexpertise closely matches that required for theproposed research.

Grant Application Form

The first page of the proposal is the grantapplication form. It provides information aboutthe research proposal and the investigator(s)who is submitting the proposal. Grant applicationforms are supplied by the funding organizationand completed by the applicant.

The information requested usually includes thefollowing:

Title of the research proposal. The title

is the first contact a reviewer has withthe proposed research. Keep the titleshort, but be sure it adequatelydescribes and highlights the mainelements in the study. Include keywords that reveal the essence of theproposed research. Do not use obscuretechnical terms or jargon that will berecognized only by small groups ofresearchers with similar interests.

Name(s) of the principal investigator andco-investigator(s).

Credentials, professional title, home andwork addresses and telephonenumbers, RN license and social securitynumbers, and membership status (of the

funding organization) of the principalinvestigator. Names of the proposed research staff. Type of funding being requested. Names of institutions or sites where

research will be done. Date of approval by the applicant's

institutional review board and theboard's identification number.

Time (dates) for which funding isrequested.

Date the application is submitted. Signatures of the principal investigator

and co-investigators (if applicable).

Abstract

The abstract is a clear concise summary of theproposed research project. It is commonly 50350 words long and takes up no more than onepage. The funding organization's guidelinesusually specify the limitations. The abstractshould capture the essence of the proposalconcisely and completely. Begin with a shortstatement of the purpose of your study, andindicate the research hypothesis or questions.

Give the rationale for the proposed study, anddescribe the research design and data analysis.Finally, offer a conclusion about the anticipatedresults and their significance. Include vitaldetails that make the proposed research originaland important. Reviewers should be able to readthe abstract and know what you propose to do.

Typically, the abstract includes the followingmajor elements:

Title of the proposal. Name of the principal investigator

(project director). Name of the applicant's organization

(institution). Objective (purpose of the study and

rationale). Methods (procedures and research

design). Significance (contribution).

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The abstract may be the only part of theproposal read by some reviewers.Therefore, prepare it carefully.Paraphrase objectives and proceduresand include key terms from the body ofthe proposal to prepare reviewers for

them.

Specific Aims

The section on specific aims is the mostimportant element of the research proposal. Itspecifies the problem to be addressed andprovides reviewers with a background orperspective on it.

Specific aims are the major research issues,questions, or hypotheses that provide aformalized focus for data collection and

interpretation of results. They are statements ofwhat you want to accomplish in your study.

The specific aims should accomplish fouressential goals:

Specify the variables to be investigated. Explain the proposed relationships (i.e.,

expected outcomes) among variables,when appropriate.

Indicate the conditions under which therelationships of interest between thevariables will be studied.

Specify the characteristic of thepopulation to be studied.

The words in this section should besharp and straightforward, and the ideasshould be provocative. Sharpen thefocus by excluding irrelevant andextraneous words and ideas.

Be sure the study's perspective,originality, and contribution toknowledge building are clear.

Significance

The section on the significance of the proposedresearch defines the importance of the problemto be studied. It contains a statement of theproblem, background information on the scopeand distribution of the problem, a summary ofthe literature on the problem, and an indicationof gaps in existing knowledge. It also includesinformation on expected gains for nursingpractice and on the relevance of the research tothe funding agency.

Specifically, in this section, describe,summarize, analyze, and synthesize knowledgeabout the topic by providing the following:

Background of the problem in terms ofwhat has been studied, when it was

studied, how the research was done,where the problem has beeninvestigated, and what populations havebeen studied.

Theoretical or empirical basis for thepurpose of the investigation, in otherwords, the justification for doing thestudy.

Direction for proceeding with the study.Provide information on previouslysuccessful approaches to the problem.

Limit the literature review to keyreferences that pertain to the

independent and dependent variables inyour research questions or hypothesesand the relationships or conditionsstated in the specific aims of yourproposed study.

Summarize the current state ofknowledge about the topic area.

Synthesize and critique the literature; donot simply list published results.

Discuss studies in sufficient detail sothat even an inexperienced researchercan understand their relevance.

Describe how these studies contribute

to your proposed research and how yourproject goes beyond previous work.

If you will be using a conceptual framework,discuss any previous use of this framework andreview flaws or gaps in the research. Ifapplicable, discuss the rationale for use of thisframework with hypotheses formulation. If theorywill be tested, describe the theory, discuss workalready done to test the theory, delineate workthat is needed, and conclude with what you willdo. A diagram may be helpful in clarifying adetailed framework or theory.

METHODS AND TIMETABLE

The methods section must communicate yourresearch plan clearly, concisely, and completely.This section is usually about 12 pages long, butagain, this may vary according to the fundingagency. Fifteen pages, however, may be morethan most reviewers can deal with effectively.

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The methods section is a step-by-step set ofinstructions for doing the study. It outlines theinvestigator's strategy, indicates how the specificaims will be accomplished, and gives the detailsof the methods to be used. If the project can bedivided into specific categories, it may be helpfulto divide this section up into subsections.

If you have done previous research related toyour proposed project, use the results of thatwork to convince reviewers that the proposedstudy is feasible and based on testablehypotheses. A description of preliminary workcan show reviewers that your methods andinstruments are workable, that you have accessto all the sites you plan to use, and that you area capable and committed investigator. Describethe earlier project briefly. Emphasize thepromise of the findings and how they support theneed for the proposed study. Include figures,tables, diagrams, and so forth if applicable, asthese are easy for reviewers to appraise. If thefindings are complex, consider giving the detailsin an appendix.

For your proposed research, the methodssection should include information on the studydesign, the variables and sample, the protocolsand instruments to be used, the proposedtimetable for the study, methods of dataanalysis, and potential limitations in theproposal.

Research Design

The research design designates the type ofinquiry that will be used to answer the researchhypotheses or questions and provides aframework for the rest of the study. The type ofdesign depends on the question asked;experience of the researcher; feasibility of theproject; and available resources such as time,money, staff, and access to subjects. Examplesof quantitative designs are survey, historical,single case study, descriptive, quasi-experimental, and experimental. Examples ofqualitative methods are grounded theory,hermeneutics, phenomenology, and descriptivestudies.

Variables

Independent or dependent variables arecombined to formulate the research questions orhypotheses. Research questions are formulated

primarily for exploratory research and ask whysome problem occurs. Usually, they aregenerated from three primary sources: aconceptual or theoretical framework,experiences in nursing practice, and existingliterature on the topic of interest.

The following are examples of researchquestions:

What are the effects of 10 sec of continuousendotracheal suctioning on heart rate, meanarterial blood pressure, and respiratory rate incardiac surgical patients?

This question contains the independent variableof 10 sec of continuous endotracheal suctioning;the dependent variables of heart rate, meanarterial blood pressure, and respiratory rate; and

the sample population of cardiac surgicalpatients.

What types of decisions do family membersneed to make after a traumatic event?

This question addresses the variables of atraumatic event and types of decisions andincludes the sample population of familymembers.A research hypothesis states the expectedrelationship (directional or non-directional)between independent and dependent variables.

Unless otherwise indicated in the applicationinstructions, only the research hypothesis isstated in the proposal. However, a nullhypothesis rather than a research hypothesismay be used for statistical analysis, because anull hypothesis suggests value-free objectivity.

Sample

Sampling is the process by which a portion of adesignated population is selected to representthe whole population. This component of theproposal indicates the number of subjects that

will be involved in the study, the population fromwhich the subjects will be sampled, inclusionand exclusion criteria for subjects, the samplingplan, rationale for the size of the sample, andrationale for inclusion and exclusion criteria.

The sample selected must be appropriate for theaims of the study and should answer thefollowing questions:

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What is the population of interest? What sample is available? Why is this sample of subjects the best

sample to answer the study questions? How large a sample is needed? How

will the sample be obtained or the

subjects approached? Letters of cooperation from institutions

that will provide subjects for the studyshould be included in the appendix.

Determining an appropriate sample size is acomplex decision even for experiencedresearchers and depends on severalparameters:

The choice of research method(qualitative vs quantitative).

Significance level (probability of

rejecting a true null hypothesis) set bythe researcher.

Anticipated effect of the independentvariable on the dependent variables.

Desired power (probability of finding atrue significant result) of a statistical testof the null hypothesis.

Clearly indicate the type and size of thesample and the underlying rationale forthese choices. This helps reviewersdetermine the generalizability offindings.

Determine the number of subjects by

using a power analysis based onpreliminary data from the literature.

Have an experienced researcher or astatistician help you calculate power onthe basis of your projected sample size.

Include details of the power analysis inthe section on data analysis.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Inclusion and exclusion criteria specify who iseligible to participate in the research project.They help define the population of interest. For

each inclusion or exclusion criterion, giveevidence from the literature indicating why thiscriterion has been selected. For example,patients with severe head injuries are subjectswho have a score of less than 8 on the GlascowComa Scale (GCS) on admission to the hospital.Therefore, a criterion for sampling of patientswith head injuries should include a GCS score ofless than 8 on admission.

Data Collection

The section on data collection provides adetailed description of how data will be obtained.For example, this section might indicate howand when instruments will be administered to

subjects or interviews conducted. Include adescription of any pilot procedures and how theyrelate to your proposed research.

Clearly describe how each variable is definedand how it will be measured. Include preciseoperational definitions of treatments. Indicatewhat instrumentation (i.e., device or method) willbe used to collect data. Describe eachinstrument; how it is coded, scored, ormeasured; its reliability and validity, as reportedin previous studies; and how reliability will beexamined in this study. Also include relevant

data about the precision and calibration of anymechanical equipment.

Timetable

Provide a timetable (e.g., a figure or list) thatincludes all activities for the proposed research.Specify dates for planning, preparation, datacollection (protocol implementation), data entryand analysis, and writing up the results (for afinal report and publication).

Data Analysis

Organize the section on data analysis accordingto the order of the research questions orhypotheses. The techniques proposed musthave a logical "fit" with the research problemand must answer the questions appropriately. Ifneeded, consult an appropriate expert who canhelp you determine how data should becollected, how they will be analyzed, and whatanalytic procedures are needed.

Potential Limitations

If your research design has limitations, such aslack of control over extraneous or confoundingvariables, address these issues directly.Anticipate problems that may occur and suggestalternative strategies. This type of preparationdemonstrates your appreciation of potentialdifficulties and your ability to deal with them.

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ETHICAL REVIEW

In the section on ethical review, address anyethical considerations on use of subjects in theproposed project. Include the steps andsafeguards for obtaining informed consent. The

form for informed consent (See Appendix B)should include the following information:

Purpose of the study. What subjects can expect during the

study. Amount of time involved for the subject. Risks and benefits from participation in

the study. Whom to contact if the subject has

questions about the study. Assurance that the subject may

withdraw from the study at any time

without detriment to continuedtreatment.

Be sure that the form can be readily understoodby a layperson and that it is free of languagethat might be considered coercive orthreatening. The subject or the subject's legalguardian must be competent to evaluate therisks and benefits of the study and make adecision about participation. In the appendixes,include letters of approval from your institutionalreview board. Some funding agencies requireapproval before a proposal is reviewed; others

require approval before funds are awarded.

Include assurances that any animals to be usedin your research will be handled appropriatelyand with concern for their welfare. Scientificprogress in the health sciences depends onaccess to all available sources of knowledge,including research with animals. Any investigatorwho uses animals in research and theinvestigator's associated institutions must be incompliance with the amended federal AnimalWelfare Act, the standards for laboratory animalwelfare set by the Institute of Laboratory Animal

Resources, and the guide for the care and useof laboratory animals published by the NationalInstitutes of Health. Such documents provide theprimary criteria for humane and ethical treatmentof animals in testing, research, and education.Include in the appendixes a letter documentingthat an institutional animal care and usecommittee or other similar review body hasreviewed and approved protocols in yourproposal that involve animals.

BUDGET

A budget describes the financial plans andpriorities for a specified time frame. It helpsensure that resources will be used effectively.Complete your research proposal before you do

the budget. For ideas on how to itemize andjustify costs, look at the budget of a similar orrelated project that has been approved andfunded. Check for any limitations imposed by thefunding agency. Above all, be realistic, practical,accurate, and detail oriented. If your budget isinappropriate for your proposal, the reviewersmay think you do not understand therequirements of the research and may questionyour ability to manage the grant. If the projectrequires more money to implement the projectthan the funding agency allots, designate howmonies and/or support for the remaining projectwill be managed.

The budget consists of two sections. The firstsection details the amount of funding requestedfor each year of the project; the second providesthe justification for the funding requested.The personnel part of the first section includes arequest for salary support for the investigators,data collectors, technicians, secretaries,statistician, and others who may be needed inthe project. In small or pilot projects, this work isoften donated time, and salary support may notbe required. Most grants do not provide fundsfor salary support of the principal investigator. Inthis part, list all personnel and indicate theirroles and the percentage of their time that will bedevoted to the project. Also list in the firstsection, special facilities that may have abearing on the research. This might include theavailability of special equipment, access tosubjects, consulting services, buildingarrangement, or availability of space for therequired equipment and personnel. Sampleavailability might be highlighted in this sectionalso. In the part on equipment, include requestsfor capital equipment that costs a minimum of$500, disposable supplies for patients, and

office and computer supplies. Travel costs mayinclude reimbursement to subjects for costsincurred for research-related travel.

The budget justification provides an explanationfor each funding area. It explains why each itemin the budget is necessary and why the costs foreach item are reasonable. For personnel,describe in detail each person's qualifications,

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role, and percentage of time that will be devotedto the project. For equipment, supplies, travel,and other items, clearly justify need and cost.The justification section is vital. It providessupport for the amounts specified in terms ofadequacy, appropriateness, and feasibility forcompleting the study. Be sure the proposedbudget is consistent with the proposed work.Take care that each budgetary provision has acounterpart in the project description and viceversa. A clearly described project and a preciseschedule or work plan can easily be translatedinto budgetary terms. A budget that is too low is

just as unacceptable as one that is too high.Check the budget checked for errors such asmistakes in addition and duplication of costs.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES

Provide biographical sketches of key personnelinvolved in the study. Include a summary of theirrelevant training, experience, and researchcompetence. This information should supportthe proposal and assure reviewers that theinvestigators are qualified to complete theproposed study.

Clearly specify who will be the principalinvestigator or the grant recipient responsible forthe conduct of the study. In addition, describethe contribution of each co-investigator to theproject.

Novice researchers may bolster their chances ofobtaining a grant by securing the services of anestablished researcher as an active consultantor co-investigator for the study. Consultants maycomplement the experience of the principalinvestigator, but too many consultants mayindicate an inexperienced researcher who isdependent on consultants. In this case, theproject's acceptance is less likely.

In general, biographical sketches are limited totwo pages. Therefore, limit information to workfrom the preceding 3 years and to previous workthat is relevant to the grant proposal.

APPENDIXES

Appendixes are used to support the researchproposal. Do not put text that is central to theproposal in an appendix; put it in the main body

of the proposal. Put supportive information anddocumentation in an appendix. In the body ofthe proposal, be sure to include reference tosupport materials.

Appropriate materials for an appendix include

the following:

A work plan or detailed outline of thestudy timetable.

Letters of support for the project (fromclinical agencies, academic facilities).

Letters of collaboration or consultation(on formal letterhead paper).

Letter of approval or clearance from theinstitutional review board, humansubjects committee, or animal protectioncommittee when appropriate.

Instruments or measures that will be

used in the study. Other supportive materials as needed

(e.g., expanded detail on proceduresmentioned in the body of the proposal).

Funding agencies usually provideguidelines on the types of appendicesthat are acceptable. If no guidelines areprovided, call the agency beforeincluding any appendix in your proposal.Some funding agencies do not allowappendices.

Letters of support from key personnel inclinical agencies about access to

subjects are critical. A description or summary of the known

characteristics of potential subjects andtheir willingness to participate isencouraging for reviewers.

Documentation of previous experienceand relevant expertise of the researchteam provides strong support forfeasibility of the study.

REFERENCES

Some funding agencies specify the style to be

used for literature citations and the referencelist. In general, all references cited in theresearch proposal should be included in a list atthe end of the research plan. If no style isspecified, follow one of the guidelines providedby organizations such as the AmericanPsychological Association or the AmericanMedical Association.

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PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS(AACN SMALL GRANTS)

Performance improvement projects or smallgrants are generally clinical projects that usepreviously known research findings to improve

clinical practice. They are usually conceived inresponse to an identified clinical problem andare meant to address the issue in a time-effective and cost-efficient manner. They areNOT meant to be research and unlike aresearch study, do not have the goal ofgenerating new knowledge. They are meant tosolve clinical problems through the application ofexisting research-based knowledge.

AACN Small Projects Grants do not generallyrequire the scientific rigor of a typical researchproposal as outlined previously in this document.

Because the nature of the funding is small(usually $500 to $1,500); the timeline for fundingto project implementation is short (usually < 12months); and the project usually involves theapplication of established, well-researchedinformation (e.g. guidelines, procedures,protocols, etc), the application process has beenmodified accordingly.

The Small Grant Application/Proposal shouldinclude:

Cover Letter

Grant Application Form Timetable for Project Budget (Funding Requested and

Justification For Funding Requested) Evidence of Ethical Review - If IRB is

not available in institution, request letterof approval from facility administrationindicating they are aware of the projectand its implications for their patients.

Participant Consent - All subjects inproject must give written consent,especially if eventual publication ofproject results is anticipated. (Exception:

Data abstraction from medical recordswith elimination of all patient-specificidentifying data)

Program Questions Specific to eachgrant, these questions should beanswered in detail. When describingthe project use the information outlinedin the Methods Section above as ageneral guide.

Exception

AACN Small Grants may also apply to smallresearch projects conducted by students ornurses in the clinical setting. In these situationsapplicants may apply using the format outlined

for Small Grants in theAACN Grants in Supportof Clinical Projects and Research. Incorporateelements of a research proposal (e.g. SpecificAims, Significance, Methodology, etc.) whereappropriate when answering the Small GrantsProgram Questions.

RESOURCES

You can find information regarding variousAACN grant opportunities by way of:

Online, PDF Grant brochures are

available on the AACN web site at:www.aacn.org >Membership>Grants>Grants in Support of Clinical Projectsand Research.

AACN Customer Service:800-899-2226. Request item # 1013.

2003

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APPENDIX A

PREPARING A RESEARCH GRANT APPLICATION

Six Months Before the Deadline

1. Draft a preliminary outline of a potential "problem area" and possible research ideas related tothat area.

2. Review literature related to the target problem area. Pay particular attention to major articles thatwill be helpful in delineating the research questions or hypotheses.

3. Formulate a preliminary draft of research questions or hypotheses. Type or print out a copy of thedraft and distribute it to colleagues and available experts for critique and feedback. If possible,collect some pilot data as a basis for the study proposal.

4. Establish communication with a contact person at the prospective funding organization and obtainan application packet or guidelines. Find out if the organization provides assistance in developingproposals, such as budgetary consultation or a preliminary review of the proposed research.

5. Carefully read all instructions in the application packet and note the deadline for submission ofthe grant proposal.

6. Construct an outline of required sections for the proposal as specified in the organization'sguidelines.

7. Seek statistical consultation for the project.

Five Months Before the Deadline

1. Prepare the first draft of the research proposal, and distribute it to colleagues and experts for

critique and feedback. Be sure to include the grant guidelines with your proposal.2. Obtain guidelines and instructions for obtaining approval for your research from the committee

that deals with the use of human subjects in scientific investigations. Consult with members of thereview board whom you think will be interested in and supportive of your proposal. Thesemembers may have recommendations related to the review process.

3. Request biographical sketches or resumes from all co-investigators and project personnel.

Four Months Before the Deadline

1. Revise the proposal. Incorporate refinement of ideas and feedback from colleagues and experts.Prepare copies of the revised proposal.

2. Seek consultation on developing a budget for the project.

3. Draft a preliminary budget and distribute it to appropriate resources for feedback.4. Solicit letters of support for the project (e.g., from the chair of your department, dean, executive

officer in nursing).5. Read the guidelines on the format of biographical sketches. Update biographical sketches and

have copies prepared.

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Three Months Before the Deadline

1. Contact the research office or financial department of your institution for budgetary review.2. Submit the required documents to your institutional review board (IRB) for clearance on the use

of human subjects.3. Submit a draft of the revised research proposal to colleagues for additional critique and feedback.

4. Reevaluate research questions or hypotheses in terms of their significance and researchfeasibility.

Two Months Before the Deadline

1. Finalize the budget and submit it to the appropriate department for approval. Include anyinformation needed for justification of items in the budget.

2. Prepare another revision of the research proposal.3. Obtain approval from the institutional review board and the required signatures on appropriate

forms.

One Month Before the Deadline

1. Proofread the final version of the application and make corrections.

Two Weeks Before the Deadline

1. Paginate the final copy of the application.2. Obtain the specified number of copies for the funding agency.3. Carefully check each copy to make sure it is complete. Keep at least two copies of the application

for your files.4. Attach the cover letter, addressed to the contact person at the funding agency, to the front copy

of the duplicated applications.

5.Send the completed application to the funding organization.

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APPENDIX B

PARTICIPANT (SUBJECT) CONSENT FORM

I understand that (name of investigators) is/are conducting a study titled: (title of study). The purpose of the study is(explain exact purpose of proposed investigation; identify independent and dependent variables in laymans terms,

so patient and family can understand).

I understand that information from this study will help (specifically state anticipated outcome of study).

I understand that (specify if any or no additional) expenses will be incurred by me as a result of my participation in

this study. I further understand that the direct benefits of the study to me are (none or list all potential benefits)

and/or that society may benefit by (list all potential benefits).

I understand the risks involved in this study include: (list all potential risks of study protocol) and that measures to

minimize these risks include: (list all potential measures taken to minimize risks).

I understand that records or data from this study will not contain my name or any other personal identification. I

further understand that in the use of information generated from this study, my identity will remain anonymous and

that access to all study data will be restricted to only the study investigator and his/her research staff.

I hereby acknowledge that (name of investigator or authorized representative) has provided information about thisstudy and about my rights as a subject in this study. All of my questions regarding the study have been answered to

my satisfaction. I understand I may contact (name of investigator) at (investigators phone number) if I have further

questions about this study.

I understand I may contact (name of institution)s Institutional Review Board at (IRB phone number) if I have any

questions about this study that were not answered to my satisfaction or if I have complaints about this consent

process or the study itself.

(Investigator or representative) has fully explained the anticipated risks described in this consent and I understand

them. He/she has also offered to explain all possible risks or complications. In the unlikely event of physical injury

or illness resulting from my participation in this study, I understand that costs of treatment will be at my expense andthat financial compensation is not available from (name of institution).

I have read and fully understand this consent form. I sign it freely and voluntarily. I further understand that refusalto participate in this study will in no way affect my treatment or my relationship with my physician and/or(name of

institution). A signed copy of this consent has been given to me.

Date: ________________________ Time: ___________________

Signed: _______________________________________________________________________

(Subject or Authorized Representative)

Signed: _______________________________________________________________________(Investigator or Authorized Representative)

Witness: ______________________________________________________________________

* This consent form is intended as an EXAMPLE ONLY. Investigators are strongly advised to check withtheir institutional review boards about specific institutional subject consent form requirements.

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Documents

Writing a Successful Grant