Question

You are the nurse manager of a medical-surgical unit that is in need of a change in staffing rotation patterns, which will lead to major changes in how the unit is staffed. According to Lewin's Change Theory, what forces are in play to enact these changes?

Answer 1

In applying Lewin's Change Theory to staffing rotation pattern changes in a medical-surgical unit, the driving forces promoting change and the restraining forces resisting it must be managed, with the goal of making the driving forces stronger than the restraining forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Lewin's Change Theory, the staffing rotation patterns in a medical-surgical unit require understanding the forces at play to successfully enact changes. These forces include driving forces that push towards the change, such as the need for improved patient care, workforce optimization, or response to nurse shortage.

Simultaneously, there will be restraining forces resisting change, which may include staff resistance due to the impact of shift work on their personal lives and relationships, or the uncertainties about new scheduling routines. Lewin's model suggests that to successfully implement change, the driving forces must outweigh the restraining forces, such as through effective communication, inclusion of staff in the decision-making process, and providing adequate support during the transition.