Developing theory and practice: Creation of a Community of Practice through Action Research produced excellence in stroke care

摘要

Much emphasis is placed on expert knowledge such as evidence based stroke guidelines, but not enough attention is paid to the processes that are required to translate this into delivery of everyday good care. This paper highlights the worth of creating a Community of Practice (CoP) as a means to achieve this. Drawing on findings from a study conducted 2000 - 2002 of the processes involved in establishment of a nationally lauded high quality Stroke Unit, it demonstrates how successful development of a new service was linked to creation of a CoP.\ud\udRecent literature suggests CoPs have a key role in the implementation of evidence-based practice; this study supports this claim whilst revealing for the first time the practical knowledge and skills required to develop this style of working. Findings also indicate that the participatory and democratic characteristics of Action Research are congruent with the collaborative approach required for the development of a CoP. The study is an exemplar of how practitioner researchers can capture learning from changing practice, thus contributing to evidence-based healthcare with theoretical as well as practical knowledge. Findings are relevant to those developing stroke services globally but also to those interested in evidence-based practice. (198)