1-I can understand and agree what you are saying. Today, I started self-module training for the new Epic computer system we will be starting effective March 1st and barely passed the exam portion which didn’t have me so thrilled. Although this would be a great upgrade to what we are currently using, many of us worry about the adjustment phase. Yes, it’s true there is little energy or drive for energy left when working 12+ hour shifts, let alone any extra time in those shifts to even think about learning as we go along with the idea of being at work longer than scheduled because of that. While many of the nurses are excited about the change, there are those who are so accustomed to the current processes that they are not up for it. When the transition from paper to computers occured at my previous workplace, many quit because of the failure to adapt or energy/drive to adapt. This could also be the result of inadequate training and support. But yes, I agree that we just need to dig down, stay positive, find that energy for change because times are changing and evolving and most things are implemented for the better. As long as education, training, and support is adequate, change is attainable.
2-I agree, I think you covered everything needed to implement something new if it’s within our scope. I know how tough it can be to just change things in my working environment without getting negative feedback. I find it is best to throw an idea out there see how everyone feels about it, ask for feedback, and procede from there. I don’t always get 100% buy in, but they come around after they get used to the new change. Yes, the best way to keep everyone on the same page and to have safe patient care is communication.
3-I really like how your first thought was about how it would benefit a patient. That really goes to show that your first instinct as a nurse is to put your patient first. You then mention checking the scope of practice for your board of nursing. Really those two things are one in the same, as your states scope of practice, and really all the rules of the state board of nursing for practicing nurses, are specifically written to ensure that what you are doing as a nurse will do no harm to your patient, and let us not forget it is to also ensure you are practicing within the rules as well. I also like that mentioned if you felt uneasy you would seek guidance from your chain of command. This is a great use of resources, and I would say that even if you fell 100% confident that you could definitely still reach out to your chain of command for their thoughts and use as a resource throughout the roll out process. Sometimes as nurses we can get caught up as A type personalities and just get running on a task without even taking the time to ask a question, or get some input from other parties that have a lot more experience with these things. What I have learned from all the posts on this discussion is that I should do a little more self assessment, and ask for input from peers and mentors before diving into a task this large.
