Communication Practice to Drive Outcomes in a Nurse Residency Program

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Simulation
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Communication gaps are a persistent challenge for newly qualified registered nurses.
• Effective communication is crucial for patient safety and team collaboration.
• High-reliability behaviors are essential for minimizing errors in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a simulation-based intervention on communication competencies in new-to-practice registered nurses.
• To assess the effectiveness of integrating structured communication and high-reliability training into a nurse residency program.

Main Methods:

• A four-station simulation was implemented within a multi-specialty nurse residency program.
• The simulation focused on reinforcing structured communication techniques and high-reliability principles.
• The Casey-Fink survey was used to measure self-reported communication competencies.

Main Results:

• Post-hire survey results at 12 months indicated improved self-reported communication competencies among participating nurses.
• The simulation intervention was associated with positive changes in nurses' perceived communication abilities.
• Program outcomes demonstrated the value of simulation in enhancing nurse communication skills.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is an effective strategy for improving communication skills in new registered nurses.
• Integrating structured communication and high-reliability training into residency programs positively impacts nurse competencies.
• This approach supports the development of a safer and more effective nursing workforce.