Development of an evidence-based strategy to implement the HIRAID® emergency nursing framework in rural emergency departments using behaviour change theory.

Introduction: Emergency nurses are critical to emergency care delivery, particularly in rural areas with limited medical support. To support nurses, the validated emergency nursing framework, HIRAID®, was to be implemented. Implementing interventions in the emergency context is notoriously difficult and rural areas have added challenges with limited resources across large geographic areas. This study aims to develop an evidence-informed strategy to implement HIRAID® across a large rural/regional health district.

Methods: The behaviour change wheel and Theoretical Domains Framework were used in developing the implementation strategy. The theoretical domains, linked to barriers and enablers to implementing HIRAID®, were mapped to intervention functions. Associated Behaviour Change Techniques were considered to determine suitability to address barriers or enhance enablers, as well as suitability according to and the APEASE criteria.

Results: Seven intervention functions, such as modelling, education, and incentivisation, were deemed suitable for inclusion. The intervention functions were mapped to 20 BCTs and planned to be operationalised through 11 delivery modes, including a flexible education program, documentation templates, and support in the workplace.

Conclusions: This study determined the relevant BCTs and mechanisms of delivery to mediate change in behaviour and support uptake of the HIRAID® emergency nursing framework in a rural health district.