Using research to improve ophthalmic nursing care

This article focuses on the way in which the nursing care of patients undergoing vitreoretinal surgery was developed as a result of an action research project. The research project is described and the following practice developments are discussed: the preoperative preparation of patients; the physiological effects of posturing; communication between patients, staff and the multidisciplinary team; and the knowledge base and clinical skills of nurses. These developments are evaluated and suggestions for future practice are made.