Action research in action: reflections on a project to introduce Clinical Practice Facilitators to an acute hospital setting.
OBJECTIVE
The process and philosophical basis of action research are discussed in this article by reviewing the insights that were gained from a study designed to enhance the support available to junior nursing staff in an acute hospital setting.


BACKGROUND
It has been well documented that newly qualified nurses require help to develop professional competencies. With this in mind, the role of Clinical Practice Facilitator was established within a National Health Service (NHS) Trust to enhance clinical skill acquisition and the professional development of newly registered nurses and health care assistants.


METHODS
In order to facilitate the inception, development and subsequent evaluation of these new roles, an action research approach was adopted. Strategies used to encourage collaboration and flexibility during the project are also discussed.


RESULTS
The primary aims of the project were achieved and the authors suggest that the choice of action research was significant to the successful outcome. However, a number of issues arose which deserve more attention including the importance of the interpersonal skills of the action researcher and the value of action research to facilitate change which is relevant at both an individual and organizational level.
Kelly
D
D
Nursing and Governance, University College London Hospitals, London, UK. daniel.kelley@uclh.org
Simpson
S
S
D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D015401:Nursing Administration Research / Q000379:methods*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D010687:Philosophy, Nursing; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012944:Social Support; D013041:Specialties, Nursing / Q000193:education*; D013192:Staff Development / Q000379:methods*; D006113:United Kingdom