An Attitude of Gratitude Program: Shining the Light on the Work Environment

Building and sustaining a culture of safety, quality and accountability is a challenge in healthcare.   Engagement data from national organizations oftentimes use questions about recognition and demonstrate that retention of staff is directly related to various types of recognition especially from their direct supervisor and those in authority.   This program focuses on developing and implementing a simple yet straightforward program that encourage employees at all levels to recognize others for their work.   This unique session started out as part of our Schwartz Rounds program to begin the new year.  Based on positive feedback from the first year, we repeated the Attitude of Gratitude Program again a year later with a remarkable increase in participation and overwhelming positive feedback.  Fostering a positive work environment requires continual improvement and this one approach to recognition has added value to teamwork and the patient experience.