About
Dr John Rihari-Thomas is a Senior Lecturer (Teaching and Research) at the Sydney Nursing School, part of the University of Sydney's Faculty of Medicine and Health. He holds clinical expertise in cardiology and patient deterioration management, with roles in state-level Clinical Excellence Commission advisory groups and the Cardiovascular Research Network. His research focuses on implementation science, patient safety, and de-implementation of low-value care practices. He led the ACCELERATE and ENCORE randomized control trials to improve nursing practices in acute care settings, reducing adverse clinical events like cardiac arrests. He also implemented the Rapid Response System (RRS) at St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney.
Research interests include person-centered practice, nurse welfare, and behavior change strategies. He collaborates internationally with institutions like Emory University (USA) and the WHO Collaborating Centre in Austria. Awards include the 2023 Fast Forward Presentation Award for his ACCELERATE trial work and the 2021 Nursing Research Institute Award.
Key affiliations include the Institute for Health Improvement (USA), Sydney Health Partners Implementation Science Academy, and the National Heart Foundation. His recent presentations include chairing the NSW Cardiovascular Research Network Masterclass and delivering the inaugural Sydney-Emory Research Seminar. Professional networks span Sigma Theta Tau International and the International Society for Rapid Response Systems.
