Leading change: evidence-based transition | JoVE Visualize

Area of Science:

Healthcare Management
Pediatric Nursing
Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

Hospitals frequently experience patient population transitions due to evolving healthcare needs, expansion, renovation, or diagnosis-based cohorting.
Children's Health Children's Medical Center Dallas has undergone numerous transitions in recent years, necessitating structured approaches.
Smooth transitions are vital for patient and family well-being and for fostering a positive work environment for healthcare staff.

Purpose of the Study:

To establish a framework for evidence-based patient population transitions within an acute care pediatric setting.
To guide successful patient moves, ensuring continuity of care and optimal resource utilization.
To enhance the understanding and utilization of the clinical nurse specialist's role during transitions.

Main Methods:

Developed a comprehensive transition plan addressing physical location, care flow, supplies, equipment, staffing, and family preparation.
Emphasized the critical role of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) in planning and execution.
Organized transition themes around the CNS's spheres of influence: system/organization, patient/family, and nursing.

Main Results:

Successfully implemented an evidence-based transition plan for three distinct patient populations.
The clinical nurse specialist's support was integral to the successful execution of these transitions.
Organizational leadership demonstrated increased recognition of the CNS's value and impact following the transitions.

Conclusions:

Clinical nurse specialists are pivotal in driving evidence-based practice changes across organizational, nursing, and patient/family domains.
Transitions, while stressful, offer opportunities for professional growth and the development of healthier work environments.
Key transition components include efficient organization, improved patient/nurse satisfaction, maintained work environment standards, adequate staffing/education, and robust staff/patient support.