Center for Nursing Research & Quality Outcomes | MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Portland

The Collaborative Model of Evidence Translation (CoMET^©) was developed and tested at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center. The model utilized the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) framework for evidence translation. The model was updated in 2024 to CoMET v.2 reflecting the updated Integrated or i-PARIHS framework, which builds on the original PARIHS model by conceptualizing successful implementation as a dynamic interaction between:

1. Innovation: the evidence or practice change being implemented
2. Recipients: individuals or teams affected by the implementation of the innovation
3. Context: the environment, the organizational culture, leadership and evaluation mechanisms that can impact the success of implementation and outcomes
4. Facilitation: the central element of the framework involving strategies and roles that guide and support implementation

The CoMET© v.2 provides a framework to guide implementation of evidence-based practice initiatives to improve health care outcomes. The CoMET© v.2 defines a structured, collaborative process for reviewing, communicating, implementing and monitoring of outcomes of evidence-based patient care policies, practice guidelines and standards of care. When used by the Practice, Research & Quality Councils, their collaborative efforts determine the strength of the evidence, education content and in conjunction with the Education Council, enhance knowledge translation by identifying effective educational strategies, strengthening facilitation and educator capacity for the implementation of a practice initiative with the goal of improving practice uptake, sustainability and improving outcomes.

Informatics is recognized in CoMET©v.2 reflecting its critical role in operationalizing evidence translation and ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and frontline needs.

CoMET© v.2 ensures alignment with our local (inner) context and stakeholder needs (outer context) to improve healthcare outcomes.  It also reflects the growing emphasis on capacity-building and knowledge translation capability within healthcare organizations.

References

• Kitson, A., Harvey, G., & McCormack, B. (1998). Enabling the implementation of evidence-based practice: A conceptual framework. Quality in Healthcare, 7(1), 149-158.
• Harvey G, Kitson A. PARIHS revisited: from heuristic to integrated framework for the successful implementation of knowledge into practice. Implement Sci. 2016 Mar 10;11:33.  

Evidence-based practice & interprofessional research

The CNRQO provides consultation and assistance to clinical staff for evidence-based practice, quality improvement and research projects. This includes the development of clinically important questions, crystallization of project/study designs, Institutional Review Board (IRB) proposal and application writing, implementation of project/research plans, data collection, data entry and analysis, interpretation and utilization of the findings and extensive support for the dissemination at inter-professional conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals, as well as internal reporting mechanisms.

The Abstract Book

The Abstract Book is a biennial publication showcasing MHMMC Portland clinicians’ evidence-based practice, quality improvement and research projects in abstract format. It highlights the continued commitment of MHMMC Portland clinical staff to a culture of evidence-based practice. Abstracts are authored by bedside nurses and other front-line clinicians for conference presentations.

Many of the abstracts are based on nurse-led and clinician-driven projects and reflect a robust culture of inquiry at MHMMC Portland. Nurses and other health care colleagues are supported and empowered to ask important clinical questions, seek evidence-based answers, and share their findings within MHMMC Portland and at many professional local, regional and national conferences.

The Qualitative Research Interest Group

The Qualitative Research Interest Group (QRIG) gathers interdisciplinary scholars from institutions across New England and beyond to discuss topics of interest to qualitative health research. QRIG was created to provide community and support for health researchers engaged in qualitative methods.

As nurses, our professional role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities beyond merely the provision of clinical care. These responsibilities include continuing education, professional development, advocacy, research/evidence-based practice, mentorship/teaching and ethical practice. 

At MHMMC, we have the privilege of being a member of the Kappa Zeta at-Large Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International (Sigma) nursing honor society. Sigma honors the professional responsibilities of nurses through a variety of initiatives and programs:

• Education: Continuing education opportunities, including online courses, webinars and conferences. These programs help nurses stay current with the latest advancements in healthcare and nursing practices.
• Professional Development: Resources for career advancement, such as leadership development programs, certification support and networking opportunities. These resources help nurses enhance their skills and advance in their careers. 
• Advocacy: Support for nurses in advocating for the profession and patient care. This includes involvement in policy-making processes and providing a platform for nurses to voice their concerns and suggestions for health care improvements. 
• Research: A long history of supporting nursing research, offering grants, scholarships and awards to fund research projects that aim to improve patient outcomes and advance the nursing profession. 
• Mentorship: Various programs that connect experienced nurses with those new to the profession, supporting the transfer of knowledge, skills and professional values.
• Ethical Practice: Resources and guidelines to help nurses navigate ethical dilemmas and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. 

The Kappa Zeta at-Large Chapter, currently led by members of our nursing department, was formed in 1988 by Saint Joseph’s College and the University of Southern Maine (with the University of New England joining several years later). Chapter leaders seized the opportunity to highlight the collaboration among these institutions and MHMMC Portland through clinical rotations and other work. Following a rigorous application and interview process, the chapter became the first internationally to add a practice partner (MHMMC) and retained the designation as the only such chapter for the ensuing two years.

The chapter offers members many benefits, including academic scholarships, research grants and student and preceptor recognition. MHMMC collaborates with the Student Nurses Associations at the three schools on charitable activities such as the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. We support dissemination of research and evidence-based practice projects at Sigma events, and we offer mentoring and leadership development through volunteer opportunities.

MHMMC extends a warm welcome to nurses who want to join the chapter, those who have been inducted and are not currently active, and active members looking for opportunities to engage with colleagues. Sigma offers something for every nurse, at any stage of their career.