Implementation Facilitation Activities Used by an External Facilitator in a Quality Improvement Intervention

Abstract

Electronic Thesis or DissertationImplementation facilitation is a dynamic, multi-faceted practice that supports both the execution and sustainability of interventions, but there is limited understanding of how implementation facilitation activities are carried out. This knowledge gap may have implications for facilitator training and the long-term success of facilitated interventions. Previous studies have relied mainly on interviews with facilitators. To address this gap, this study examines transcripts of recorded meetings between an implementation facilitator and nursing home leadership teams during a complex, psychosocial quality improvement intervention. This study analyzed transcripts from 24 meetings across two nursing home sites, using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analytical approach (2021). The study identified three themes regarding facilitation activities used by an implementation facilitator: (1) Building Relationships with the Team Through a Compassionate and Strength-Focused Approach; (2) Fostering Critical Thinking of Resident Care Practices; and (3) Co-designing Goals and Action Plans. The theme of fostering critical thinking also highlighted the active involvement of the leadership team in these discussions. This research deepens our understanding of facilitation practices and offers insights for improving the training of facilitators and the design of implementation efforts, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of interventions in healthcare settings