Finding joy in research: reflections on recognition in pharmacy practice
Sadaf Keshtiar
BPharm (Hons), GradCertPharmPrac | Resident Pharmacist, Monash Health | sadaf.keshtiar@monashhealth.org
[Pharmacy GRIT article no: 20251419]
As part of the AdPha Resident Training Program, I led my first original research project which aimed to explore whether a recognition and rewards program could improve morale in a hospital pharmacy department. The program titled, Appreciate, invited pharmacists and technicians to nominate colleagues who exemplified workplace values. These nominations translated into points redeemable for prizes. To evaluate the program’s impact on workplace joy and culture, we used a descriptive qualitative method, analysing peer nominations, anonymous surveys, and semi-structured interviews.
This idea was born from the post-COVID-19 period, as I observed the toll that low morale was taking on staff. The prevalence of burnout among pharmacists — particularly during the pandemic — has had significant effects on staff wellbeing and retention across the profession.1,2 Focusing on the wellbeing of the healthcare workforce in my research felt both timely and personally meaningful, which made the many hours spent on the project feel purposeful. It was rewarding to explore a space where research could directly influence how we support one another as colleagues.
What began as curiosity quickly evolved into a steep learning curve. With no prior experience in original research, I navigated every step — ethics, study design, analysis, the publication process — through self-directed learning. While I was fortunate to receive guidance from a range of supervisors, the volume of new information was overwhelming. Managing not only my own competing priorities, but also those of supervisors, committees, and journal submission deadlines taught me the importance of proactive communication and mid- to long-term planning.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned was how to divide phases of the research process into manageable tasks. Completing an entire research project, including writing the actual manuscript, initially felt daunting, but setting weekly targets helped me stay on track. Small wins — like drafting a paragraph or sending an email — added up. The psychological benefit of ticking off tasks was really helpful in maintaining my motivation.
Reflecting on the experience, I would streamline the project by focusing on one data collection method. The qualitative descriptive approach was entirely new to me and while it was interesting to explore multiple data sources: nominations, interviews, and surveys; focusing on a single data collection method would have allowed for more manageable analysis without the added complexity.
This project taught me more than only how to conduct research, it shaped how I approach challenges, think critically, and embrace uncertainty. It helped me develop patience and better understand the value of evidence-based practice. A key strength of the study was its practical focus and direct relevance to current challenges in healthcare, highlighting its potential for real-world impact. Most importantly, I learned the value of choosing a topic that resonates with both the researcher and the broader profession. I now feel better equipped to approach future research with confidence and clarity.
References
- Johnston K, O’Reilly CL, Scholz B, Georgousopoulou EN, Mitchell I. Burnout and the challenges facing pharmacists during COVID-19: results of a national survey. Int J Clin Pharm 2021; 43: 716–725.
- Professional Pharmacists Australia (PPA). Overwhelmed, exhausted and burnt out - the experience of employee pharmacists. West Melbourne: PPA; 2022.