An action research intervention in an internal medicine service
Event Title
1st International Meeting on Wellbeing and Performance in Clinical Practice
Year (definitive publication)
2014
Language
English
Country
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More Information
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Abstract
Background: In this presentation we will describe a specific case of an action research conducted in an
Internal Medicine service at a large teaching Hospital and discuss its practical implications.
Methods: The service involved in the action research has 59 doctors, 66 nurses, and 42 auxiliary
professionals, divided by four sectors. The present intervention focused on one of those sectors.
Findings: On a first phase, the problem was identified and defined. In order to do so, researchers conducted
interviews with key persons (chief nurse, chief of sector) and with diverse professionals. There were also
moments of observations, where researchers were collecting data in loco by observing the daily routine of
the service. Finally, quantitative data was gathered using a short questionnaire encompassing key
dimensions (e.g. conflict, teamwork). This particular sector reports a high level of conflict within and
between different professional groups, particularly between nurses and doctors, as well as a lack of
communication and cooperation between them.
Discussion: The action was planned together with the professionals, who were also responsible for its
implementation. The evaluation of the action research will be presented, as well as a reflection of what
worked and what did not work.
Acknowledgements
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Keywords