ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to explore the nature of information in after-action reports in terms of nursing practice and the utility of using after-action reports in a feedback loop to improve nursing training. This was a three-phase, mixed-method, qualitative study, using focus groups, phone surveys, and e-mail surveys to collect data. The sample consisted of 72 military nurses (Air Force, Navy, and Army) deployed in the last 4 years. The process of after-action reporting is unknown to the majority of nurse corps officers. Topics of concern in after-actions reporting included supplies, psychosocial issues, personnel, communications, logistics, and after-actions reporting process. Traditional written after-actions reporting has not provided an adequate feedback loop. Alternative methods suggested included "hot wash" meetings, online submissions, e-mail contributions, and verbal debriefings. After-actions reporting could yield an excellent wealth of information, if reported in a timely and detailed manner, for nursing leaders.
