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- Title
The Implementation of a Unit Resource Nurse in the Cardiovascular Surgery Setting.
- Authors
Rizzotti, P.; Frew, J.
- Abstract
In recent years there has been an increase in the number of new graduate nurses hired on the cardiovascular surgery unit at the Halifax Infirmary. This increase has led to limited available support, decline in morale, and a high percentage of inexperienced nurses in the overall staff mix. To assist in the transition to working independently and helping maintain a high standard of care on the unit, the role of unit resource nurse (URN) was implemented. The URN was selected through a request of expression of interest from current registered nurses employed on the unit. Expectations of the role were developed through consultation with a nurse manager, clinical nurse educator (CNE), and the URN. The URN role was customized to the needs of the unit and scheduling was based on the schedules of the new staff members. Responsibilities of the URN include, but are not limited to: arranging for preceptors, mentoring new and IMCU staff, exposing new staff to clinical skills, auditing documentation, enforcing best practice and developing tools to aid in daily practice on the unit. While the evaluation of the role is currently ongoing, feedback has been mostly positive with reports of high levels of support. The role has also supported the CNE by providing feedback on individual nursing needs and educational needs of the unit, with a resultant decrease in the demand for the presence of the CNE on the unit. As the demand for new nurses continues to grow, the URN provides the much-needed support for all nurses in the health care team during this ongoing phase of transition.
- Subjects
CARDIOVASCULAR diseases; NURSES; OPERATING room nursing; GRADUATES; OCCUPATIONAL roles
- Publication
Canadian Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 2016, Vol 26, Issue 3, p5
- ISSN
0843-6096
- Publication type
Article