Dear Nurse Colleague:BWH Nurse - For and about the Nursing Staff of Brigham and Women's HospitalDear Nurse Colleague:BWH Nurse - For and about the Nursing Staff of Brigham and Women's Hospital

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Dear Nurse Colleague:

As nurses at a major research hospital, we frequently are challenged to think creatively. Our cover story — which highlights how extraordinary teamwork among BWH’s clinical staff saved a patient’s life in a critical situation — demonstrates that in our operating rooms, medical and surgical units, emergency and specialty care units, we are prepared to use our expert medical knowledge in a spontaneous and creative way.

Innovation also is a key factor in research. Importantly, nurses also can lead studies as the principal investigator — serving as the primary clinician who is seeking answers to questions that emerge in nursing practice. What therapies are good for patients? Is there a better way to care for a certain patient population? How can we improve safety in the health care workplace? How can we best communicate with patients and their families at key junctures of care? How can we professionally and personally support our colleagues?

In this issue, we begin a new column that highlights BWH nurses who have contributed to a variety of publications (page 9). These authors show that our nurses are seeking new understanding that will benefit patients here at BWH and also nationwide.

If you have a clinical question that you wish to pursue, there are several possible funding sources. BWH-based grants include the Lily Kravitz Nursing Studies Award (page 9), for which applications are now being sought. Later in the year, applications will be solicited for the Mary S. Fay Enrichment Awards in Nursing, which focus on research to advance compassionate and expert care. In addition, funds are available from government agencies such as the National Institute of Nursing Research, and private organizations such as the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. If you need assistance in research design and statistical support, we provide these services at our Center for Excellence in Nursing Practice.

I encourage all our nurses to think creatively about questions that arise in nursing practice. The evidence we gather today will pave the way to the innovative practices of tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Nancy Kruger, DNSc, RN
Vice President, Patient Care Services
Chief Nursing Officer