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Learning Objective 1: Describe a mentoring program for senior staff nurses focusing on enhancing professionalism.
Learning Objective 2: Discuss evaluation data from a mentoring program for senior staff nurses so that a similar program can be replicated with improvements.
UAMS is Arkansas’ referral center for high-risk obstetrical patients with 1600 delivered last year. Arkansas’ infant mortality rate of 8.5 / 1000 live births compared to 6.7 nationally illustrates the complex population cared for at UAMS yet no formalized mentoring is received. Called Leading the Way, this program provides a mentoring program for senior nurses with support by Sigma Theta Tau International Maternal-Child Health Leadership Institute and the ANGELS Program.
Purpose
Leading the Way will ensure that senior nurses are well-prepared to give, supervise and evaluate high-risk obstetric care. Expectations are enhanced professionalism, job retention and career satisfaction translating to improved patient care.
Project Activities
Monthly group discussions included evidence-based practice, specialty organization membership and writing for publication. Individual meetings focused on QI projects and further career mentoring.
Evaluation Methods
Demographic, pre-, and post-program data were collected including professionalism activities characteristic of high-level nurses. Long-term evaluation such as increased nurse satisfaction, retention and patient outcomes is planned one year from program completion.
Evaluation Results
Patients impacted include those case-managed through the ANGELS Program. QI projects demonstrate outcomes and areas to improve on and include:
- Fetal monitoring standards: 40 patients; 10% adhered to national charting standards.
- Female tele-stroke patients: 30 women, 6 of childbearing age; 100% had improved stroke scale.
- Antenatal monitoring program: 75 women; 40% had preterm births; 1 fetal death; resulted in a cost savings of $1,475,475.71 or $19,673 per patient.
Discussion
Leading the Way impacts UAMS, patients and nurses. Program analysis is scheduled for fall 2011. Participants will gain a skill-set allowing for higher level nursing practice, positively influencing junior nurses.
Next Steps
Plans for a second program are underway; replication across the campus will be explored. Investment in programs like Leading the Way will result in cost savings and improved health for Arkansans.
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