Key result
Review highlights quasi-experimental and action research methods for evaluating postoperative pain education.
Why the study?
Relief of postoperative pain is often unsatisfactory and there is a need for more research on the effectiveness of educational programmes to improve care.
Action research may offer a more sustainable approach than quasi-experimental designs for implementing educational programs to improve postoperative pain management.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Educational programs may improve postoperative pain relief; leaves open need for rigorous trials before practice change.
Much research has supported the conclusion of the report from The Royal College of Surgeons and College of Anaesthetists (1990), London, England, that the relief of postoperative pain is in many cases unsatisfactory and calls for more research on the effectiveness of educational programmes. A prime aim of nursing research is to influence and to improve practice. In relation to postoperative pain Sofaer's (1985) study was an example of the use of a quasi-experimental approach to improve postoperative pain relief through nurse education. Sofaer suggests that although positive effects were demonstrated they may not have been sustained in the long term. Further, Sofaer suggests that action research may have produced a more sustainable change. This paper critically discusses the use of these two research methods in relation to this problem.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Nick Allcock (1996) conducted a review in Postoperative pain. Educational programmes (quasi-experimental vs action research methods) was evaluated. This paper critically discusses the use of quasi-experimental and action research methods to evaluate the effectiveness of educational programmes for improving postoperative pain care.
Synapse has enriched 10 related papers. Consider them for comparative context: