RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Organising a manuscript reporting quality improvement or patient safety research
JF BMJ Quality & Safety
JO BMJ Qual Saf
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP 777
OP 785
DO 10.1136/bmjqs-2012-001603
VO 22
IS 9
A1 Christine G Holzmueller
A1 Peter J Pronovost
YR 2013
UL http://qualitysafety.bmj.com/content/22/9/777.abstract
AB Background Peer-reviewed publication plays important roles in disseminating research findings, developing generalisable knowledge and garnering recognition for authors and institutions. Nonetheless, many bemoan the whole manuscript writing process, intimidated by the arbitrary and somewhat opaque conventions. Methods This paper offers practical advice about organising and writing a manuscript reporting quality improvement or patient safety research for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. Results Each section of the paper discusses a specific manuscript component—from title, abstract and each section of the manuscript body, through to reference list and tables and figures—explaining key principles, offering content organisation tips and providing an example of how this section may read. The paper also offers a checklist of common mistakes to avoid in a manuscript.