Internal Communication and Dissemination Strategies During Magnet Implementation in German Hospitals: A Qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Communication
• Nursing Leadership

Background:

• Magnet Recognition Program principles aim to improve nursing quality and patient outcomes.
• Successful implementation requires effective internal communication and dissemination strategies within healthcare organizations.
• Understanding implementation leaders' perspectives is crucial for optimizing communication approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore internal communication and dissemination strategies for Magnet principles implementation.
• To identify facilitators and barriers from the perspective of implementation leaders in German hospitals.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 15 semi-structured interviews with 16 implementation leaders.
• Conducted in six German hospitals participating in the Magnet4Europe project (January 2023 - June 2024).
• Data analyzed using qualitative content analysis, adhering to COREQ guidelines.

Main Results:

• Four themes emerged: multi-channel communication, effective wording, leveraging enablers, and navigating challenges.
• Essential elements include diverse communication channels (visual, written, verbal) and consistent, tailored language.
• Facilitators include leadership support and linking Magnet principles to practice; challenges involve reaching audiences and staff resistance.

Conclusions:

• Communication is pivotal for supporting Magnet implementation, dissemination, and cultural integration.
• A multifaceted approach combining visual, verbal, and interpersonal strategies is key.
• Leadership support, tailored language, staff engagement, and continuous communication foster long-term cultural change.