Research in trauma.

Abstract

Successful research in clinical trauma requires the researcher to be exposed to many injured patients, have a personal commitment to research conducted at inconvenient hours and be inquisitive so as to identify clinical problems that need scientific answers. Once initiated, a research project necessitates the collection and storage of clinical data on a weekly basis before patient discharge. A computer data program facilitates later retrieval and statistical analysis. Departmental support of the clinical investigator is mandatory. Although the personal commitments for producing first-rate clinical research may seem excessive, the rewards are commensurate.