Research on the frontlines of healthcare: a cooperative learning approach.
BACKGROUND
Evidence-based practice is a common goal in hospitals, but learning about research so that the practice can be done is often challenging for clinicians.


OBJECTIVE
The aims of this study were to (a) develop a process that supports organizational and staff development while conducting research and (b) conduct a research study in the emergency department (ED) to examine patient population, satisfaction, and waiting room issues.


METHODS
A multidisciplinary team of clinicians and scientists was assembled to learn and do research while evaluating the ED waiting room of a Level I trauma center. A cooperative learning method approach was used to teach research concepts as the study was designed and implemented.


RESULTS
The team demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of research concepts by being involved actively in the creation and implementation of the preintervention study. Using information from photographs, observations, and a questionnaire, the team identified the following key dissatisfaction areas: (a) atmosphere (including comfort with environment, neatness and cleanliness, and noise), (b) telephones, (c) parking and thoroughfare, (d) professional behavior and staff presence (including personal attention), (e) security, and (f) triage and confidentiality.


CONCLUSIONS
The model of working in partnership with researchers and using cooperative, collaborative research is an effective way to evaluate and address issues related to quality of care while learning about the research concepts needed to put evidence into practice.
Panik
Anne
A
Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network, 1247 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Allentown, PA 18103, USA.
Bokovoy
Joanna
J
Karoly
Elizabeth
E
Badillo
Kimberly
K
Buckenmyer
Charlotte
C
Vose
Courtney
C
Wheary
John
J
Sierzega
Gina
G
Deitrick
Lynn
L
Hyduke
Andrew
A
D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D006272:Health Facility Environment; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research / Q000193:education* / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration; D019370:Observation; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010414:Pennsylvania; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D013192:Staff Development / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014850:Waiting Lists