Related Experiment Videos
The experience of action research in practice
1School of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Griffith University (Gold Coast).
Contemporary Nurse
|September 1, 1996
Summary
This study used action research in a hospital surgical ward to improve nursing practice. Nurses identified issues and implemented changes, particularly in the admission process, enhancing their ability to enact improvements.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Healthcare Management
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Action research principles were applied in a public hospital surgical ward setting.
- The study involved active participation from ward staff, fostering a collaborative approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the application of action research within a surgical ward.
- To identify and address key concerns impacting nursing practice through participatory methods.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a mixed-methods approach including group meetings, individual interviews, and questionnaires.
- Employed journaling for observational data collection throughout the action research spiral.
- Focused on the admission process as a case study for implementing change.
Main Results:
- Nurses identified three major concerns within the surgical ward.
- The admission process underwent significant changes, demonstrating the impact of action research.
- Participants recognized discrepancies between their stated practices and actual behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Nurses gained awareness of inconsistencies in their practice.
- The study highlighted the capacity of nursing staff to initiate and manage practice changes effectively.
- Action research proved a valuable framework for enhancing surgical ward operations.