Developing networks between residential aged care facilities as a result of engagement in a falls prevention project: an action research study

Abstract

Background: Residential aged care facility (RACF) staff often operate in isolation. Research is lacking on networking between facilities. Aims: To explore outcomes associated with network formation between two RACFs as part of an action research approach to reducing falls. Design: Action research approach with qualitative data collected. Methods: Twelve RACF staff from two facilities in regional Tasmania, Australia, formed a falls prevention action research group. Thematic analysis was undertaken of 22 audio-recorded fortnightly group meetings. Results: This was the first opportunity for participants to meet colleagues from another facility in a professional context. The formation of an inter-facility network enabled the sharing of ideas and systems related to evidence-based falls prevention activities and other issues and galvanised a collaborative focus for action. Conclusions: An action research process can be used to create an inter-facility network. Such networks can decrease staff isolation and facilitate best resident care.

Keywords:

• accidental falls
• community networks
• evidence-based practice
• health services research
• nursing
• residential aged care facilities
• action research

Acknowledgements

We thank Brendan Churchill for assistance with data collection and the staff of the residential aged care facilities involved with this project.

Additional information

Funding

The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing (Canberra) provided financial support for this research as part of the “Encouraging Best Practice in Residential Aged Care” program. The funding source had no involvement in study design, collection, analysis or interpretation of data, in the writing of this paper, or the decision to submit the paper for publication.