followed is a perfect case history of structural
empowerment in action.
I proposed three initiatives,” says Kate.
“First, that we require all staff members to
participate in a monthly unit audit so they can
be highly knowledgeable about how to identify,
document and care for skin wounds. Second, we
develop an incontinence kit that contained all
the products and instructions for treating these
skin conditions. Finally, we create and distribute
a daily audit sheet on evidence-based skin and
wound care and charting to all nurses and nurse
elements of her initiative have been put into
assistants.”
practice. Nurses now demonstrate extraordinary
consistency in use of best practice skin-care
Kate knew she could count on support
It paid off. In the last year, all three
from her nurse manager, even though she
techniques. Pressure ulcers have disappeared
knew she was asking a lot. “To require all staff
entirely. Cases of incontinence dermatitis happen
members to participate in a skin audit would
rarely if at all. Nurses and nursing assistants know
take almost four hours of staff time for each
they have helped improve their patients’ skin care,
person,” says Kate. “Megan was willing to manage
and ultimately, their quality of life.
the cost for these extra hours. That’s no small
commitment.”
Empowering employees
can help improve patient
care. Kate tells how.
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UNC HOSPITALS Nursing Annual Repor t