Dissemination of research-based knowledge in an intensive care unit-a qualitative study.
BACKGROUND
A gap exists between best evidence and best practice in intensive care units. The aim of this study was to investigate different aspects of intensive care nurses' and physicians' inter- and intraprofessional collaboration, with focus on factors associated with standardised weaning from mechanical ventilation.


METHODS
A qualitative design was used for implementing research-based knowledge into multistage focus group discussions. Data were analysed by means of qualitative content analysis.


RESULTS
One main theme emerged: The need for strategies aimed at improving quality control of care, and three sub-themes: 'Interprofessional learning', 'Quality control of care', and 'Teamwork and communication'. The multistage focus groups were perceived as an important interprofessional arena for improving quality of care. Improvement projects and research dissemination must be regarded as vital parts of the organisation's ongoing development work. Management was perceived as crucial for success.


CONCLUSIONS
Interprofessional research dissemination was perceived as important both in the creation of a common understanding and in knowledge development. Managers should make use of the valuable knowledge possessed by bedside professionals in their strategic planning. There is a need to allocate time for learning and reflection to provide a safe practice environment.
University of Stavanger, P.O. Box N-4036, Norway. habs@sus.no
Britt Saetre
BS
Hansen
Elisabeth
E
Severinsson
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D019985:Benchmarking / Q000458:organization & administration; D003142:Communication; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003422:Critical Care / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000523:psychology; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination; D008297:Male; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D008875:Middle Aged; D009664:Norway; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D019555:Physician-Nurse Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D017749:Total Quality Management; D015300:Ventilator Weaning / Q000451:nursing / Q000592:standards