Learning Objective #1: Discuss the identification and standardization of a process of cultivating greater professional accountability and empowerment among nursing staff using "model units" as laboratories of innovation

Learning Objective #2: Analyze results of assessing “model units” utilizing the Nursing Workforce Index and evaluate the impact of work environment innovations on nursing sensitive quality indicators

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To study the impact of enhancing the nursing work environment on nurse, patient, and hospital outcomes, Meridian Health (MH) established three model nursing units, one at each of it's three Magnet hospital campuses. Creation of “Model Nursing Units” (MOC) operationalized the concepts of a new nursing practice model. On these “model units” staffing was increased based on patient acuity, a no floating policy was instituted, manager was selected based on leadership characteristics, a nurse educator was added and enhanced technology was budgeted. In addition, national certification and participation in the clinical recognition program is required. Nurse and patient outcomes are being tracked over time.

In 2003, Meridian Health received a grant from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, New Jersey Initiatives program to further enhance the work environment through the development of a process of cultivating greater professional accountability, empowerment, and clinical decision making among the nursing staff using the model units as “laboratories of innovation”. The project, entitled “An Innovative Process for Work Environment Enhancement,” addresses the nursing shortage by developing a standardized innovative process in which staff identified areas for outcome improvement, developed strategies for creating changes, and evaluated the outcomes. This process was to be overlaid onto the MOC units and then evaluated and replicated on “next-generation” MOC units.

In December 2003, data were collected via the Nursing Workforce Index (NWI) survey from the three MOC units and eight comparison units to assess the impact to date of the MOC unit implementation and to provide baseline information before grant interventions were initiated. In this presentation, a comparison of baseline data with follow-up NWI data one year post grant intervention will be presented as well as an evaluation of the impact of work environment enhancements to date on nurse sensitive quality indicators.