Background

In April 2014 a group of Credentialled Diabetes Educators (CDE) from two public hospitals, a local community centre & private hospitals within a geographical area established a professional CDE journal club (JC).  The purpose of the journal club was:

1. To enhance knowledge of the research process and the ability to critique research studies.
2. To disseminate research results into practice.
3. To promote team building across our network

Aim:

This paper reports the establishment of the JC and the results of an evaulation of the JC in achieving its aims.

Method:

Formats of journal clubs and available resources were reviewed. The ‘Yale New Haven Hospital Nurses’ Journal Club” format was adapted suit the group.  Meeting times were agreed to be held six times per year from 1600-1700 hrs. Two CDE’s were rostered to present peer reviewed journal articles at each meeting. Articles were distributed to the group prior to the meeting. The presenters completed and disseminated a “Table for Critiquing Research literature” document to the group for use through the meeting.  The findings were presented and discussed by the group and minutes distributed following the meeting.

Results:

Average time working as a CDE is 12.3 years. Average time working in healthcare is 26.9 years.

Members used a Likert type scale from 1-10 and reported their critical appraisal and confidence in reviewing articles from pre JC to current date. This increased by average of 57%.

 Interpretation of data was recognised by most as requiring further skills.  The main barriers to joining a journal club were time and knowing how to search journals.

Conclusion:

The CDE Journal Club has provided an opportunity for members to share current clinical research, improve literature critique and appraisal skills, network with peers and promote evidence based practice in a cost effective manner. Experienced CDE can still benefit from attending a JC