Background: Injuries resulting from handling patients lead to lost time from work, medical expenses, and long-term effects including disability (Andersen et al., 2019). While research suggests the num..
Background: Injuries resulting from handling patients lead to lost time from work, medical expenses, and long-term effects including disability (Andersen et al., 2019). While research suggests the number one initiative to prevent back injuries is consistent use of assistive devices, sustainment of results is driven by culture change of the organization (Wahlin et al., 2020). Local Problem: One of Sherman`s SPH committee`s goals are to eliminate team member injuries related to lateral transfers, boosting and repositioning. While the committee maintains efforts in place for the in-patient tower, it was lacking collaboration with supporting departments such as transport, and outpatient care. Method: To help bridge the gap of opportunities this committee initiated monthly status checks with ancillary departments. This was a collaboration between department leaders, mobility coaches, and SPH leaders to understand needs, remove barriers, assess education gaps, and manage resource deficits. The committee also launched Transfer Mobility Coach driven rolling cart. It was focused on real time training and engagement strategies for team members. Most recently the committee partnered with the Sim Lab to develop a CMET SIM to make a stronger connection between maintaining the safety of our workforce while managing safe mobility efforts. Results/Conclusions: Sherman hospital reduced injuries specific to boosting/repositioning from 16 in 2020, 11 in 2021, 5 in 2022, and 1 as of May 2023. Implications for Practice: Implementation of SPH program helps decrease overall team member injurers (Wahlin et al., 2020). Creating a strong foundation of ownership and peer accountability drives culture change and sustainment of safety outcomes.
Bogun-Dzioban M. Reducing team member injuries through culture change. Quality Improvement poster presentation at Empowering Nursing Excellence: Recognizing the Value and Impact of Nurses, Advocate He..
Bogun-Dzioban M. Reducing team member injuries through culture change. Quality Improvement poster presentation at Empowering Nursing Excellence: Recognizing the Value and Impact of Nurses, Advocate Health Midwest Region Nursing Research & Professional Development Conference 2023; November 15, 2023; virtual.