Research utilization and the consumers of care: the parent's perspective

Parents and professionals enter into research relationships with differing expectations and purposes. Fifty parents were approached to request permission for their infant to participate in the Transition of the Preterm Infant to an Open Crib research utilization project. All parents agreed. Most parents were enthusiastic about the project and viewed the possible outcome of participation as enhancing the care and recovery of their infant. Some parents delayed granting permission until convinced of the successful results by observing other infants in the project. Some parents granted permission based on trust and faith in the care-giving system.