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Quality & Performance Improvement in Healthcare Via Nursing Support
Quality and performance improvement in healthcare is a constant goal. One often overlooked aspect of achieving these objectives is focusing on the wellbeing of nurses. The profession demands that nurses prioritize their patients, often at the expense of their own needs. However, research clearly shows that when nurses aren’t properly supported, both patients and healthcare organizations suffer. Fortunately, there are several strategies healthcare organizations can implement to support their nursing staff, thereby benefiting patients and improving overall care quality.
- Create a positive, supportive work culture
Nursing can be a stressful and demanding career. It’s critical for nursing leadership teams to create a supportive and respectful environment at work. A positive workplace culture fosters better collaboration between nurses and other clinicians, which helps prevent burnout. When nurses experience respect and successful collaboration with their coworkers, they have more capacity to focus on improving the quality of care they provide. - Provide opportunities to practice self-care for nurses
Self-care for nurses is crucial, yet often neglected due to the nature of their work. From long shifts that interfere with getting adequate sleep to facing stressful circumstances with patients, nurses encounter many obstacles to self-care. When nurses are well-supported and able to care for themselves, they’re better equipped to provide high-quality care to their patients. This, in turn, can help improve patient outcomes and overall performance in healthcare settings. - Prioritize staffing levels
One of the most noticeable effects of inadequate staff in healthcare is a decline in the quality of patient care. Demanding workloads as a result of poor staffing ratios are among the leading causes of nurse burnout in healthcare, plus inadequate staffing levels can also lead to medical errors and higher morbidity and mortality rates. Ensuring that your healthcare facility has enough nurses improves the health outcomes of both your nurses and your patients. - Encourage continuous learning and training
Investing in your nursing staff’s education benefits both nurses and their patients. Providing opportunities for mentorship and continuing education ensures nurses stay current on the latest advancements in healthcare. This not only maintains their motivation but also contributes to quality improvement initiatives within the facility. - Recognize achievements and hard work
Implementing a system that recognizes nurses’ daily dedication to their job and patients can significantly boost morale. Start by celebrating work anniversaries and birthdays, then move on to establishing a “nurse of the month” program. These initiatives create a supportive workplace that motivates nurses to give their best, ultimately enhancing the quality of patient care.
By focusing on these five strategies, healthcare organizations can create an environment that supports nurses’ wellbeing, leading to better patient care and improved organizational performance. Remember, the wellbeing of nurses is intrinsically linked with quality and performance improvement in healthcare. Investing in your nursing staff is an investment in the quality and performance of your entire healthcare facility.
Hiring dedicated and motivated nurses is key to providing excellent patient care — explore how Amergis Staffing can help you find qualified nursing professionals.
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