Using action research to develop a real-time measure of job satisfaction in the operating room setting

Abstract

This paper outlines how action research was used to develop a real-time job satisfaction measurement tool for the operating room (OR) setting. It offers insight into how collaborative action research can be used in a complex interprofessional setting to create a practical, valid and relevant tool. The study was conducted within one New Zealand hospital OR department during the period of March 2018 – June 2019. Using action research cycles, researchers and hospital personnel collaboratively created an innovative one-minute daily job satisfaction measure called the Morale-o-Meter. Complexities relating to its development and acceptability are explored and reflected upon, in order to draw insight for other researchers who are looking to use this methodology in a similar setting.