Core Palliative Care Research Competencies Framework for Palliative Care Clinicians.

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care Research
• Healthcare Professional Development
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Understanding research principles is crucial for advancing palliative care practice and service delivery.
• Research competencies enable healthcare professionals to address patient and family needs, establish best practices, and improve symptom management.
• This study was conducted as part of the Research for All Palliative Care Clinicians (RESPACC) Erasmus+ project.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and develop a structured framework of core research competencies for all members of the multidisciplinary palliative care team.
• To create a tool for assessing and enhancing research capabilities within palliative care settings.

Main Methods:

• A multi-method approach was employed, including a rapid literature review, Nominal Group Technique, and expert consultations.
• A self-assessment quiz was developed based on the identified research competencies within the framework.

Main Results:

• A Palliative Care Research Framework was developed, comprising 17 core competencies organized into 7 domains.
• Domains include: clinical context, scientific thinking and research design, ethics, study management, data management, communication, and research leadership.
• Consultation identified 6 competencies as essential for individual clinicians and 3 for the team.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework is the first of its kind for palliative care clinicians, outlining essential research competencies.
• The framework aims to foster an understanding of research's role and integration into clinical practice, rather than transforming clinicians into full-time researchers.
• This initiative supports the continuous improvement of palliative care through enhanced research engagement and understanding.