Auditing research studies.
BACKGROUND
Recognizing the increasing attention being given to reports of misconduct, fraud, and unethical behavior in biomedical research, it appears timely for nurse researchers to engage in an organized method of peer review.


OBJECTIVE
To describe an auditing process for funded research grants, the guidelines used to conduct the research audit, and the results to date.


METHODS
The audit encompassed National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded projects and their respective research teams, 12 faculty auditors using an audit worksheet developed by the Center for Nursing Research.


RESULTS
Overall, auditing of research grants was viewed positively by both investigators and faculty auditors. Minor problems were identified that could be corrected. Only one grant required a second review.


CONCLUSIONS
Specific guidelines are proposed for future audits that include level of funding and timing of audits.
Rudy
E B
EB
University of Pittsburgh, School of Nursing, PA 15261, USA.
Kerr
M E
ME
D005381:Financing, Organized; D006801:Humans; D009731:Nursing Audit; D015399:Nursing Research; D010380:Peer Review; D012579:Schools, Nursing