Examining knowledge translation practices by researchers and research engagement by end-users working in transfusion medicine

Abstract

Background: Research advances knowledge and addresses individual, organisational, and societal issues, but translating research into practice is slow and complex. It depends on accessible research, researcher engagement, end-user uptake, and supportive organisational contexts. While knowledge translation (KT) has been studied in other fields, it has not been explored in transfusion medicine. This thesis aimed to examine how research knowledge is shared, engaged with, and used in policy and practice in transfusion medicine. Methods: Study 1: A rapid review of blood donation literature mapped vasovagal reaction research along the research-to-practice trajectory using the Knowledgeto-Action framework. Study 2: An international survey examined KT barriers, facilitators, supports, and researcher practices. Study 3: Interviews with end-users in one blood collection agency explored experiences of engaging with and using research. Results: Study 1 found most vasovagal reaction articles were published in the last 20 years and mostly observational (66%), suggesting research evidence available for translation may be limited. Study 2 revealed key barriers: competing priorities, time, and resource constraints; facilitators included relationships with end-users. Researchers wanted collaboration networks, protected KT time, and resources. While most valued KT (86%), fewer felt skilled (45%). Study 3 showed end-user capacity varied by role, training, and experience. Research was mostly used by senior managers for policy and to understand blood collection issues, with limited visibility of research use for frontline staff. Organisational systems for research access were viewed as unclear and unavailable. Conclusion: Strengthening the available research knowledge, improving the capacity and capabilities of researchers and end-users to practice KT, as well as enhancing organisational structures, systems and visibility of research use can further advance KT in transfusion medicine.