117 Picu Nursing Research Priorities in the Uk and Ireland

Abstract

Background: To date there has not been a national consensus on the Paediatric Intensive Care nursing research priorities for the UK and Ireland. A nursing subgroup of the Paediatric Intensive Care Society (PICS) study group (SG) was established in 2007 with representation from as many UK and Irish units as possible. The aims of the group were to survey national PICU practice (through audit), acquire new knowledge by structured observation (through audit) and improve patient care by conducting rigorous research studies. PICS-SG is predominantly a medically-driven group, this subgroup intended to provide a strong nursing voice fostering an environment of collegiality and collaboration amongst PICU research-interested nurses. The group wants to develop links with European PIC nurse researchers and international links.Aims: The group met March 2010 to establish research priorities for PIC nursing research. A brainstorming session elicited a number of broad themes, which were then voted on to achieve six top priority themes. Further discussion led to specific areas/questions for audit or research.Results: The six priority research themes were: patient deterioration, PIC nursing workforce, family/parent/psychosocial issues in PIC, pain/sedation and withdrawal, risk reduction in PIC and nutrition/feeding in PIC.Implications: UK and Irish PIC nurses have now agreed upon priority nursing research areas, with a view to take this forward and collaborate nationally and internationally.