Auditing research studies

Background: Recognizing the increasing attention being given to reports of misconduct, fraud, and unethical behavior in biomedical research, it appear s timely for nurse researchers to engage in an organized method of peer rev iew. Objectives: 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 p rojects and their respective research teams, 12 faculty auditors using an a udit 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 co uld be corrected. Only one grant required a second review. Conclusions: Specific guidelines are proposed for future audits that includ e level of funding and timing of audits.