Shared governance is a collaborative leadership model in nursing that empowers registered nurses (RNs) to participate in decision-making at all levels of the organization (Porter-O’Grady, 1985). It is designed to improve nurse engagement, patient outcomes, and overall efficiency in healthcare settings.
Key Facts
- Improved nurse engagement: Shared governance allows nurses to have a voice in decision-making, promoting ownership, accountability, and equity. This increased engagement leads to higher job satisfaction and retention rates among nurses.
- Enhanced patient outcomes: When nurses are actively involved in decision-making, they can contribute their expertise and insights, leading to improved patient care and outcomes.
- Optimal efficiency: Shared governance allows for nonhierarchical decision-making, which can lead to more efficient processes and workflows within healthcare organizations.
- Increased nurse retention: Nurses who are actively involved in shared governance are more likely to feel valued and satisfied in their roles, leading to higher retention rates and reduced turnover.
- Promotion of quality care: Shared governance encourages collaboration and teamwork among healthcare professionals, leading to a culture of continuous improvement and quality care delivery.
Benefits of Shared Governance in Nursing
Shared governance offers several benefits for nurses, patients, and healthcare organizations. These include:
Improved Nurse Engagement:
Shared governance provides nurses with a voice in decision-making, fostering ownership, accountability, and equity. This increased engagement leads to higher job satisfaction and retention rates among nurses (Brennan & Wendt, 2021).
Enhanced Patient Outcomes:
When nurses are actively involved in decision-making, they can contribute their expertise and insights, leading to improved patient care and outcomes (Brennan & Wendt, 2021).
Optimal Efficiency:
Shared governance allows for nonhierarchical decision-making, which can lead to more efficient processes and workflows within healthcare organizations (Brennan & Wendt, 2021).
Increased Nurse Retention:
Nurses who are actively involved in shared governance are more likely to feel valued and satisfied in their roles, leading to higher retention rates and reduced turnover (Porter-O’Grady, 1985).
Promotion of Quality Care:
Shared governance encourages collaboration and teamwork among healthcare professionals, leading to a culture of continuous improvement and quality care delivery (Porter-O’Grady, 1985).
Implementing Shared Governance in Nursing
Successful implementation of shared governance in nursing requires careful planning and support from leadership. Key steps include:
Establishing a Clear Framework:
Develop a well-defined framework that outlines the structure, roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes within the shared governance model (Porter-O’Grady, 1985).
Engaging Nurses:
Actively involve nurses at all levels in the development and implementation of the shared governance model. This includes providing education, training, and ongoing support (Porter-O’Grady, 1985).
Fostering Collaboration:
Encourage collaboration among nurses, other healthcare professionals, and administrators to ensure that decisions are made with a holistic perspective (Porter-O’Grady, 1985).
Evaluating and Refining:
Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the shared governance model and make necessary adjustments to improve its functionality and outcomes (Brennan & Wendt, 2021).
In conclusion, shared governance in nursing offers numerous benefits, including improved nurse engagement, enhanced patient outcomes, optimal efficiency, increased nurse retention, and promotion of quality care. By implementing shared governance effectively, healthcare organizations can empower nurses, improve collaboration, and ultimately deliver better patient care.
References
Brennan, D., & Wendt, L. (2021). Increasing Quality and Patient Outcomes with Staff Engagement and Shared Governance. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 26(2). https://doi.org/10.3912/OJIN.Vol26No02PPT23
Porter-O’Grady, T. (1985). Shared Governance for Nursing: A Creative Approach to Professional Accountability. National League for Nursing.
FAQs
1. What is shared governance in nursing?
Shared governance is a collaborative leadership model that empowers nurses to participate in decision-making at all levels of the organization, fostering ownership, accountability, and equity.
2. How does shared governance benefit nurses?
Shared governance provides nurses with a voice in decision-making, leading to increased job satisfaction, retention, and professional growth opportunities.
3. How does shared governance improve patient outcomes?
When nurses are actively involved in decision-making, they can contribute their expertise and insights, leading to improved patient care and outcomes.
4. How does shared governance promote efficiency in healthcare organizations?
Shared governance allows for nonhierarchical decision-making, which can lead to more efficient processes and workflows.
5. How does shared governance contribute to nurse retention?
Nurses who are actively involved in shared governance are more likely to feel valued and satisfied in their roles, leading to higher retention rates and reduced turnover.
6. How does shared governance foster a culture of quality care?
Shared governance encourages collaboration and teamwork among healthcare professionals, leading to a culture of continuous improvement and quality care delivery.
7. What are the key steps for successful implementation of shared governance in nursing?
Successful implementation involves establishing a clear framework, engaging nurses, fostering collaboration, and continuously evaluating and refining the model.
8. How can healthcare organizations support shared governance?
Healthcare organizations can support shared governance by providing education, training, and ongoing support to nurses, as well as fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment.