The Institute of Medicine’s report, , addresses the need for nursing leadership; it discusses the potential for nursing to lead improvement and redesign the healthcare delivery system. Take a look at the video to see what some nurses have done to improve healthcare in their facilities. Based on your nursing experience, what change would you like to implement to improve care? What are the first steps you would take to implement the change? Video Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CtXFdITU8w
Introduction
The Institute of Medicine’s report, “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health,” highlights the critical role of nursing leadership in improving and redesigning the healthcare delivery system. This report emphasizes the need for nurses to take on leadership roles to drive positive change in the field of healthcare. In this assignment, we will explore the potential changes that can be implemented to improve care, based on nursing experience. We will also discuss the initial steps that can be taken to implement these changes effectively.
Improving Care: A Personal Perspective
As a nurse with a significant amount of experience in the field, there are several changes that I would like to implement to enhance the quality of care provided to patients. One of the key areas that I believe requires immediate attention is the integration of technology and digital solutions into healthcare delivery systems. The effective utilization of technology can significantly improve patient outcomes, enhance the efficiency of healthcare processes, and enable better communication among healthcare professionals.
Initial Steps to Implement the Change
To implement this change effectively, a series of initial steps must be taken. Firstly, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current technological infrastructure in the healthcare facility. This assessment will help identify any gaps or areas of improvement needed in terms of technology adoption and implementation. A thorough analysis of the existing electronic health record systems, communication tools, and information technology support services will lay the foundation for a successful integration of technology.
Once the assessment is complete, the next step would be to identify the key technological solutions that can address the identified gaps or areas of improvement. This may include the implementation of electronic health record systems with advanced features such as decision support tools, telehealth solutions for remote patient monitoring and consultation, as well as improved communication platforms like secure messaging systems.
In addition to technology implementation, it is crucial to provide comprehensive training programs for healthcare professionals to ensure their proficiency in utilizing these digital solutions effectively. Training programs should be designed to address the specific needs and skill gaps of individual healthcare providers, ensuring that they are well-equipped to leverage technology in their daily practice.
Furthermore, it is vital to establish a governance structure that oversees the implementation and maintenance of the technological solutions. This structure should include representatives from various healthcare disciplines, including nursing, to ensure that the perspectives of all stakeholders are taken into account. The governance structure will also be responsible for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of the implemented changes and making necessary adjustments when required.
To gain support and drive change, it is essential to engage and collaborate with key stakeholders throughout the implementation process. This includes hospital administrators, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to create a shared vision and commitment towards integrating technology into healthcare delivery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the potential changes that can be implemented to improve care are vast, and the integration of technology is a significant aspect that can bring about transformative improvements. The initial steps required to implement this change include conducting a comprehensive assessment, identifying key technological solutions, providing training programs, establishing a governance structure, and engaging key stakeholders. The successful implementation of these steps will contribute to enhancing patient outcomes, improving healthcare processes, and facilitating effective communication among healthcare professionals.