An Integrative Review of Cross-Industry Global Innovation: Evidence-Based Strategies for Nursing Practice

The Purpose of this integrative review is to examine global organizations and identify their evidence-based strategies for successful innovative practices. Innovation originates from the Latin word “innovatus” which means the initiation of new methods in a social, administrative and cultural environment (Luleci et al, 2015). In the health care sector innovation is utilized to improve health care quality and meet the increasing needs of the aging population. To meet these increasing demands of health care, nursing leaders need to develop and improve their employee skills that serve as the foundation of innovation (Fielden et al, 2009). The ability of an organization to stay competitive and relevant in today’s economy relies heavily on innovation, which is recognized as the best path to growth and prosperity(Mortati, 2015). A comparison was conducted of multi-national research papers published between 1992-2016 examining cross-industry organizations in the health care and non-health care sectors. Electronic searches from Eight data bases Academic Search Complete, CINHAL, Medline, Business Source Elite, Education Resource Complete, ERIC, Humanities International Complete and Master-file Premier using a combination of key words and controlled vocabulary. Seventeen papers were selected for review. There were many findings related to innovation, specifically applicable to nursing practice. Similarities within the different organizations included the importance of an effective communication climate, environmental factors such as the importance of close proximity among employees, and the importance of leadership and managerial support. Notable difference within the organizations include the non-healthcare organization’s ability to utilize resources and stakeholders more effectively, take greater risks when attempting new innovations, and involve a wider range of staff in decision making. Conclusions related to cross industry exploration focused on the importance of the organizational environment, communication networks, managerial support, resources and stakeholder involvement and employee characteristics when examining the innovative capacities of promotion and sustainability. Applying evidence-based practices and identifying opportunities for areas for improvement and growth within global health care, will lead to increased awareness and greater diffusion for innovative ideas in nursing practice. The clinical relevance of the integrative review findings offer nursing leaders future evidence-based recommendations and highlight the gaps in the literature related to cross industry global organizational innovation promotion and sustainability.