The effects of nursing models on quality of care

An action-research approach was used to implement a nursing model in a long-stay psychiatric ward. Within a broader quasi-experimental design, selected quality-of-care indicators were appraised before and after the implementation of the model. These dependent variables were also monitored in a control ward. Data were collected in both wards at one pre-test and two post-test points using a triangulation of mostly quantitative research methods. Research instruments emanated from the literature and the fieldwork lasted nine months. Results indicated statistically significant improvements in Psychiatric Monitor scores, perceptions of ward atmosphere, patient satisfaction, staff's views about nursing models and patient dependency levels in the experimental ward. Positive change was also noted in dependent variables not amendable to statistical analysis. No significant change was noted in medication patterns, nurse satisfaction and nurses' perception of patients' behaviour.