Further development of preliminary conceptual framework for targeting knowledge transfer interventions

Background
Nursing care based on research evidence is a clinical and professional imperative that has global implications.
Evidence in the United Kingdom identifi ed a problem of knowledge transfer and utilization within the
specialty of breast cancer nursing, thus depriving individuals of receiving optimum care.
Aims
A three-stage study was designed to: i) identify barriers to research utilization and preferred methods of
knowledge transfer to breast care nurses (BCNs); ii) develop and evaluate a knowledge transfer intervention
targeted to meet the requirements of BCNs iii) develop a preliminary conceptual framework for targeting
knowledge transfer interventions. Ongoing theoretical and empirical work aims to advance the preliminary
conceptual framework.
Method
Th e conceptual framework based on targeting knowledge transfer to meet the needs and characteristics of
a specifi c group of health care professionals was developed which incorporated the fi ndings of a national
survey of 263 BCNs of barriers to research utilization. Th e framework represents a step-wise process
designed to: describe a target group, integrate theoretically derived characteristics of eff ective dissemination,
diff usion and behaviour change (e.g. Ajzen 1991, Rogers 1995) with the needs of a target group and provide
a structure to compare diff erent knowledge transfer options. Practical considerations, such as time and
resource limitations were included.
Results
An information booklet that synthesized relevant knowledge emerged as the intervention most suited for
development and evaluation to meet the identifi ed requirements for this sample of BCNs.
Conclusions
Knowledge transfer is a complex, multi-faceted and persistent concern in health care, and requires a multilevel
solution. Th e preliminary eff ort to produce a conceptual framework for targeting knowledge transfer
interventions provided a functional structure for gathering and integrating diverse theoretical, empirical and
pragmatic components integral to devising and testing innovative strategies for the future. Further development
and application of the framework to other groups of health care professionals is proposed.