Page 45 - QARANC Vol 15 No 2 2017

March 2017
On 8 March 2017, the Academic Department of Military Nursing (ADMN) held the first of two biannual research forums for 2017, at the Defence Medical Services Whittington. Such forums are held as a tri-service event for all individuals who are currently, or interested in, undertaking research and publication.
The ADMN strategy is to nurture a positive research culture through communication, educational support, collaboration and co-ordination shown in the ADMN Research Model (Fig.1.) (Lamb, 2016). These areas are intrinsically linked to promote research activity (Lamb, 2015). The vision of ADMN is of innovation in education, research, clinical practice and capability development thereby sustaining a continuous improvement in patient care, from point of wounding to rehabilitation regardless of the environment (Lamb, 2016).
Fig. 1. ADMN Research Model (Lamb, 2015, 2016)
Through attendance I quickly learnt that the biannual research forums are a fantastic way to see what current research and publication opportunities there are, and that all levels of experience are encouraged to attend. I found that the forums themselves emulate the strategy in which ADMN strives for. No uniform is worn which helps create an informal and relaxed tri-service environment uninhibited by rank. Sessions and presentations are interactive and engaging with a vast scope of different topics. This gives people from all specialisms and stages in their career something in which they may find interest and inspiration.
The event was sponsored by the QA Association through the provision of funds for a buffet lunch and refreshments throughout the day. This generosity meant that people could network over lunch with greater ease and discuss ideas and opportunities rather than disperse to their various messes. This contributed to a vibrant and enthusiastic atmosphere.
The day itself ran from 0930 to 1600 with a plethora of
presentations. Pin boards were placed at key places in the lecture theatre to allow individuals to ask questions by writing them on post-it notes. This allowed delegates to ask questions anonymously which encouraged discussion and debate. This was particularly beneficial for those who felt that they did not yet have the confidence to speak up in front of other delegates or pose their questions to the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in ADMN. A survey to explore views on research culture within defence nursing was piloted to all 68 delegates. This included regular, reserve and MOD nurses from all ranks and all 3 services. Questions included what involvement nurses have had in research activities, such as audits, and their attitudes towards undertaking them. This survey has been sent to all nurses and HCAs through Dii and the Defence Gateway to complete by 28 July 2017 and the results will be awaited with anticipation.
The morning started with an introduction and welcome from Gp Capt Lamb PMRAFNS (Defence Professor Nursing) followed by the integral topic of the value of research to defence nursing by Lt Cdr Brockie QARNNS (Lecture ADMN). An overview of the new research, audit and service evaluation handbook was then delivered by Lt Col Bernthal PhD QARANC (Senior Research Fellow). Lt Col Jones PhD QARANC (Head of the Academic Department of Military Mental Health) gave a fantastic insight into current research projects including the Post-Operational Screening Trial. This project has established whether screening for mental health disorders in the Armed Forces would decrease the prevalence of such disorders through helping those, who have recently returned from deployment ,pursue appropriate care. The full details can be found on the Kings Centre for Military Health website under research and completed research. SSgt Davies QARANC gave a confident and well delivered presentation on writing for publication for the first time. Something which many of us may find daunting, but as demonstrated, is very achievable. Taking an idea from concept to research study was next on the agenda delivered by Sqn Ldr Thomas PMRAFNS, again a concept that can seem daunting which can discourage people from action, but after this talk now seems significantly more attainable. Multidisciplinary and collaborative research is something which is fast becoming an integral part of the research sphere. This was discussed by Lt Col Foster RAMC and showed that there are a legion of partnerships and opportunities to take advantage of. Many of us with interest in expedition medicine found the presentation of Lt Vincent QARNNS on research nursing at 5120 meters enthralling and inspiring. The day of presentations was rounded up by Sqn Ldr Paxman PMRAFNS who spoke eloquently on Advanced Practitioners in ED particularly their development and future role.
The day concluded with addressing the post-it note questions including how you could get onto an academic pathway, the development of clinical academic roles and how research can be encouraged and developed within units. Defence Medical Groups, Departments of Community Mental Health and other primary care facilities are hubs for potential research factions with Trusts or external organisations. An
THE GAZETTE QARANC 43
The Academic Department of
Military Nursing Research Forum,