The Nursing Image Discussion

My perception of change theory has broadened. I have found relevance of this particular theory in today’s dynamic nursing environment – particularly when it comes to adopting technological advancements. It is important to note that the growing prominence of computer assisted devices could for some reason overwhelm some of us who are yet to internalize changes in the healthcare environment. A good example of this is the adoption of bar-coded medication administration, whereby the patient is equipped with a scannable ID badge which a nurse could scan against drugs, and instantaneously verify the prescription on the basis of the patient’s records, effectively avoiding medication errors. The introduction of such technology could invite anxiety and perhaps resistance to change (Glasper, 2016). Lewin’s change theory could come in handy in seeking to let go of the regular way of doing things, and inviting a new mindset that not only welcomes but also promotes change.
Part 2
The leadership model I would support is transformational leadership. I am in favor of this model because of the role it plays towards the initiation of change at the organizational level. Given the dynamic nature of healthcare in the U.S., the relevance of transformational leadership cannot be overstated. This is more so the case given the key role effective nursing leadership plays towards the optimization of patient outcomes. When it comes to communication techniques for patient-centered care, it is important to note that “the nurse-patient interaction is a core component of nursing science and high quality nursing care” (Cohen, 2007). Two of the techniques I would identify with are giving recognition and active listening. While the latter makes use of cues (verbal or nonverbal) like a head nod to keep a discussion going as a nurse scouts for the relevant info, the former involves the acknowledgement of the behavior of a patient so as to encourage the accomplishment of a routine task. Both approaches enhance trust between patients and nurses and improve treatment outcomes.
Part 3
“The nursing profession remains one of the most trusted vocations, and as a matter of fact, it has been rated as such several times in the past” (Tabufor, 2017).
Professionalism in nursing involves, amongst other things, maintaining good working relations with professionals so as to ensure patient outcomes are optimized, while at the same time ensuring accountability and excellence.
“In general, in seeking to protect the image of the profession during the delivery of care, nurses must abide by the nursing code of ethics…” (Tabufor, 2017).
On this front, “the nurse is responsible for individual nursing practice and determines the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse’s obligation to provide optimum patient care” (Epstein, 2015). Being a respected profession, nursing is governed by a code of ethics which has to be adhered to.
“…a nurse should, during the delivery of care, demonstrate superior emotional stability” (Tabufor, 2017).
This is particularly the case given the need for nurses to embrace civility in the execution of their mandate so as to maintain the respect the profession attracts
“…need for nurses to have superior problem solving skills” (Tabufor, 2017).
Practice is devoid of dilemmas. Nurses will experience problems that need to be referred appropriately to avoid escalating them and hence soiling the image of nursing.


“Nursing leadership has a direct impact on patient outcomes and quality of care” (Tabufor, 2017).
Poor leadership leads to poor patient outcomes, hence degrading the image of nursing. I am in favor of a transformational approach to nursing leadership.
“…leadership is linked most directly to five categories of patient outcomes including patient satisfaction, mortality rates, adverse events, complications, and healthcare utilization” (Tabufor, 2017).
Proper leadership has holistic benefits for the profession, which in essence helps enhance its profile and mandate as a caring profession
“Strong leadership creates the type of healthcare environment that is most conducive to quality of care delivery” (Tabufor, 2017).
Quality of care has ripple effects in that it leads to better outcomes, positive feedback, continuous improvement, and the overall betterment of the profession as far as offering competent care is concerned. .
“Nurse leaders serve as patient advocates” (Tabufor, 2017).
By being compassionate to the concerns and needs of patients, nurse leaders ensure the continuation of a long tradition of public respect.





References
Cohen, S. (2007). The Image of Nursing. Retrieved from https://www.americannursetoday.com/the-image-of-nursing/
Epstein, B. (2015). The Nursing Code of Ethics. Retrieved from http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ANAMarketplace/ANAPeriodicals/OJIN/TableofContents/Vol-20-2015/No2-May-2015/The-Nursing-Code-of-Ethics-Its-Value-Its-History.html
Glasper, A. (2016). Nursing and Healthcare Research at a Glance. New York, NY: Wiley Blackwell
Tabufor, E. (2017). How Does the Nurse Protect the Image of the Profession During Care Delivery. Unpublished manuscript, West Coast University
Tabufor, E. (2017). The Influence of Leadership in the Provision of Effective Patient Care. Unpublished manuscript, West Coast University