Professional practice model
Exemplary professional practice rests on a pair of pivotal components: the professional practice model and the care delivery system, Luzinski explained.
The professional practice model spans nursing’s values, leadership, collaboration, professional development, and care delivery system. In the majority of Magnet-designated hospitals, the professional practice model centers on a theoretical framework that is evidence-based.
Some hospitals draw inspiration for their professional practice model directly from the Magnet model.
“The Magnet model itself forms the basis for many professional practice models by incorporating the model’s five major components, as well as the 14 Forces of Magnetism,” Luzinski wrote. “It must be remembered that the nursing professional practice model exists in the overall culture of a healthcare organization and must align with it. Nursing’s strategic vision, values, and priority initiatives should parallel the organization’s mission vision and values.”
Care delivery system
An organization’s care delivery system, meanwhile, exists within the professional practice model and supports nursing care that is continuous, consistent, and accountable. Magnet-worthy care delivery systems are efficient, collaborative, and center on patients and families. They use staffing models that value patient assignments that match nurse competencies with patient needs, promote continuity, and yet offer flexibility as needed, according to the piece.
“The emergence of care delivery systems has opened the door to the development of new nursing roles and nursing activities,” Luzinski wrote. “New nursing roles include the resource nurse, admission and discharge nurse, nurse patient navigator, quality outcomes nurse, and many others that support patient or hospital operation needs.”
Staffing models that include innovative set-ups, such as rapid response and stroke teams, are another element of care delivery systems.
To assess effectiveness, care delivery models should be monitored and various metrics tracked, including patient feedback on quality of care, Luzinski advised.
Characteristics for success
A top-notch professional practice model and care delivery system don’t just happen overnight.
“A professional practice that is exemplary takes time to develop, design, implement, and advance over time,” Luzinski wrote.
Certain factors are necessary for exemplary professional practice to emerge, however. These include transformational leadership, strategic direction, solid operational plans and processes, self-reflection, and an eye for emerging health care best practices. Also key is a supportive work environment that empowers staff to produce outstanding outcomes onsite and in the community.
“Exemplary professional practice is based on Magnet nurses who are autonomous, exercising clinical and organizational judgment within the context of the larger, interdependent health care team,” Luzinski wrote.
For specific examples of what it takes to attain exemplary professional practice, look no further than the hundreds of hospitals nationwide that have earned Magnet status and the care their patients receive.
“Magnet organizations,” Luzinski noted, “are leading the way in the creation of professional practice environments that result in improved patient outcomes.”
Stay tuned later this week for the next and final of our blog series on the ANCC Magnet Recognition ® model that will examine New Knowledge, Innovation and Improvements.
Are you in Houston for the ANCC National Magnet Conference? Stop by and visit us in booth #615 where you can get a FREE caricature drawing.
