(Cover letter or informational letter template

- typically accompanies a questionnaire

- print on letterhead and date)

Dear __________________:

I am a __________ [ professor, nursing student graduate student under the direction of Professor __________________] in the Department/ Division/College of _____________________ at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. I am conducting a research study to ______ (state purpose of study).

You are being invited to participate in this study because ___________________ (explain why they were chosen). If you agree to participate, you will ____________ (Explain the procedures and include the expected duration of participation). Your participation in this study is voluntary. If you choose not to participate or to withdraw from the study at any time, there will be no penalty and ___________________, (it will not affect your grade, treatment/care, select whichever applies). The results of the research study may be published, but your name will not be used. [If the questionnaire is completed anonymously, revise the sentence to read, "The questionnaire is anonymous. The results of the study may be published but your name will not be known].

If you have any questions concerning the research study, please call me [or Dr. ________] at (***) ***-**** and e-mail address, if available).

Return of the questionnaire will be considered your consent to participate. Thank you.

Sincerely,

(researcher's name)