Objective:

To evaluate the impact of the use of participatory action-research as a research method to improve pain management in older people with dementia treated in a Geriatric Acute Unit.

Methodology:

Descriptive-interpretive study framed in phases three and four of a participatory action-research according to the Kemmis and McTaggart's model. Participants were the nurses from the acute geriatrics unit who had participated in the 2 previous phases. For data collection, a questionnaire with closed questions and open questions was used. Descriptive analysis was used for quantitative data and content analysis for categorical data.

Results:

The training program, as a participatory action-research intervention, improved the nurses' knowledge. This learning could help modify nurses' practice and improve patient outcomes. In addition, the nurses stated that it motivated them to reflect on their practice both individually and collectively and made them aware of the importance of optimal pain management in the elderly with dementia. The fact of participating in the focus group and discussing their practice with their colleagues contributed to learning new ways of carrying out actions in relation to pain management and promoted teamwork.

Conclusions:

A participatory action-research process can be a good methodology to introduce and maintain changes in nursing practice to improve pain management in older people with dementia.

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