Using Multi‐Site Research Results to Impact Local Pediatric Pain Evidence‐Based Practice: Innovations and Outcomes

ABSTRACT

Background

Dissemination of results following clinical trials and community-based research provides value to participants and communities beyond the intent of the primary study. Organizations participating in multi-site research may see similar benefits if local results are shared; however, it is not standard practice. Evaluation of the impact of results sharing in multi-site research is needed.

Aims

To assess the benefits of organizational participation in a multi-site pediatric pain study when results were shared, identify how sites applied local results, and the outcomes of participation, including subsequent improvement efforts and scholarship.

Methods

Following data collection for a 12-hospital multi-site study, site research teams shared their experiences collecting the data and lessons learned. All sites received a packet with overall results, their local results, and an interpretation guide. 4 years later, the sites were surveyed about initiatives that were undertaken because of the primary study.

Results

Following data collection, 10 of 12 sites described unanticipated benefits of participation, including identifying gaps and strengths of documentation, generation of new practice questions, and identification of new opportunities for improvement. Seven sites answered the follow-up survey 4 years later. Most sites (n = 6, 85.7%) used their data to inform multiple practice changes (M = 2.8, SD 0.75), including changes in pain documentation (n = 5, 83.3%), assessment (n = 4, 66.7%), policy (n = 4, 66.7%), and treatments (n = 4, 66.7%). Five sites reported an average of 2.4 (SD 1.14) additional activities stimulated by participation, but not directly due to data. Three sites used results for American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Recognition applications.

Linking Evidence to Action

When multi-site investigators provide local data, organizations see long-term benefits, including new collaborations, quality improvement efforts, and research. Additional exploration of collaborative strategies between investigators and practice settings in multi-site research is needed for pediatric pain management and beyond.