Empowering Nurses by Implementing Shared Governance

Introduction: Shared governance improves nursing practice and accountability (Porter-O'Grady, 2019). Huntsman Cancer Hospitals adopted this model in an oncology SDS/PACU with 17 SDS beds and 18 PACU bays, serving 62 patients daily. Problem: In the 2023 RN Satisfaction Survey, only 62% were satisfied with control over nursing practice. An October 2023 poll showed 54% felt excluded from decision-making, and a Spring 2024 survey revealed dissatisfaction with accountability. Purpose: This project aims to empower nurses by implementing a shared governance structure to improve autonomy in SDS/PACU. Methods: A team council was formed with all staff as members. A team chair was selected, trained, and assigned a mentor. Weekly huddles led by the chair used the Plan-Do-Study-Act model to address problems. Results: Fourteen problems were resolved, with 24 ongoing projects, such as improving patient transport and pre-medicating for pain. Discussion: Shared governance has given nurses a platform to voice concerns, improving autonomy and engagement. Conclusions: The project yielded positive results, with several complete projects. Shared governance led to nurse-led improvements in unit operations and patient care. Implications: Perianesthesia nurses' participation in shared governance strengthens the team and improves patient outcomes. Next steps include evaluating RN satisfaction survey results and completing a needs assessment. References: Porter-O'Grady, T. (2019). Principles for sustaining shared/professional governance in nursing. Nursing Management, 50(1), 36-41. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NUMA.0000550448.17375.28