Assessing the congruence of nursing models with organizational culture: a quality improvement perspective

Model-based practice was identified by the Nursing Department at Riverview Health Centre, a 320-bed long-term care facility located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, as having the potential to enhance care quality significantly. To achieve real impact in the clinical setting, however, the model selected would need to reflect closely the culture and values of the department. It was decided to explore these phenomena using cross-method triangulation involving a cultural assessment survey (the Nursing Unit Cultural Assessment Tool) and focus groups. Patient comfort and empathy emerged consistently as core values for staff. Greater appreciation of the depth and complexity of the nursing department culture and values has provided invaluable direction vis-à-vis conceptual model selection.