Question

The nurse manager feels that changing the units method of assigning break times would benefit the flow of client care. What should be the managers first action associated with this idea?

1. Tell the staff that a change is coming, but that it is positive and they should not be worried.

2. Collect and analyze information about how the current system is working.

3. Mention in a staff meeting that the current system is causing a lot of trouble.

4. Identify how the manager would know if the change is benefiting the unit.

Answer 1

The nurse manager should first collect and analyze information about the current break assignment system to ensure data-driven decision-making and identify performance indicators to measure the effectiveness of any changes.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse manager is considering changing the unit's method of assigning break times to benefit the flow of client care, the first action should involve a thoughtful and analytical approach. Before implementing changes, it is crucial to collect and analyze information about how the current system is working. This ensures a data-driven decision-making process, which is likely to yield positive results and enhance the efficiency and quality of patient care. It is also essential in this phase to identify performance indicators that would help the manager to ascertain whether the implemented change indeed benefits the unit. This could involve looking into patient care outcomes, staff satisfaction, or efficiency metrics. By following such an approach, the nurse manager demonstrates proactive problem-solving skills and contributes to continuous improvement in the healthcare setting.