Clinical Research at Shriners Children’s Boston Supports Wide Range of Initiatives

The clinical research program at Shriners Children’s Boston is experiencing a period of exciting growth. Clinical staff across different departments are partnering with the clinical research team on studies designed to improve patient outcomes through evidence-based care. Current projects involving nutrition, burn care and nursing practices have the potential to benefit Shriners Children’s patients now and in the future.

Clinical research at Shriners Children’s Boston is led by program manager Nikki Rosado. She manages a team of five clinical research coordinators (CRCs) and is responsible for overseeing the planning, budgeting and implementation of each study. “Choosing which projects to pursue depends on several factors,” she said. “I am focused on building a research portfolio that is manageable and best aligns with the mission of our healthcare system.”

All clinical research data comes directly from patients, whether it is gathered from a survey, a biological sample or a review of medical records. When a clinical staff member has a research idea, the first step is to meet with Nikki. They work together to develop protocols for study design, data collection and participant consent. Nikki also leads each project through an internal and external review process. Once final approval is received, a CRC is assigned to work with the lead clinician to help execute the study and report the results. While doctors are often engaged in clinical research projects, staff from several different disciplines are currently working with Nikki’s team.

Studies involving burn care are an integral part of the Shriners Children’s Boston clinical research program. “We have data that is unique because of the high volume of burn patients we see here,” Nikki explained. “By studying how we manage those patients and always striving to improve outcomes, our work is benefitting children throughout the Shriners Children’s healthcare system and beyond.”

One current example is the rehabilitation therapy team’s palmar burn study. Patients treated for a burn that crosses a crease on their palm are fitted with either a thermoplastic splint or a soft cast as a standard care practice. This helps to maintain their hand’s range of motion as they heal. Occupational therapists and physical therapists had an idea for a study to help determine which cast would best meet a patient’s specific needs. They are partnering with Nikki and her team to analyze factors such as age, burn severity and activity level in patients using each type of cast. This data will help therapists make evidence-based decisions about the most effective palmar casting method for future patients.