In order for a change process to be successful, it is crucial for stakeholders to accept and sustain the change (The Denver Foundation’s Inclusiveness Project, n.d.). Internal stakeholders, who are committed to serving the organization, play a vital role in the process of change (The Denver Foundation’s Inclusiveness Project, n.d.). Identifying key stakeholders within and outside the organization can help determine those who will affect the change and those who will be affected by it (Fineout-Overhult, Williamson, Gallagher-Ford, Melnyk, & Stillwell, 2011).
For my change project, which focuses on early mobility of intensive care unit (ICU) patients, internal stakeholders will be instrumental in ensuring the success of the plan. I intend to seek insight and approval from the two intensivists at Banner Estrella, as their support will be crucial when presenting the plan to others. Both physicians agree that early mobility should be implemented, which strengthens the case for change. Furthermore, I will present my idea, supported by evidence of improved patient outcomes, to the Senior Clinical Manager and Director of ICU, who are ICU nurses and thus understand the importance of early mobility. By gaining support from management and physicians, I will then present my proposal to the Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Executive Officer of Banner Estrella. In this presentation, I will emphasize the effect of early mobility on patient care and its potential for cost savings. To effectively present my ideas, I will plan a meeting and provide statistical data that substantiates the claim that early mobility of ICU patients reduces hospital length of stay.
External stakeholders, such as clients/patients and community partners, will also be affected by the change (The Denver Foundation’s Inclusiveness Project, n.d.). In my change project, critically ill patients admitted to the ICU will be impacted. Patients are a significant stakeholder in this project because their participation is essential for the implementation of early mobility. To understand patient perspectives and address their concerns, I plan to engage in discussions with patients currently admitted to the ICU. By involving patients in the planning process and gathering their feedback, I can ensure that the change implemented is supported by those it directly affects. When presenting information to patients, it is important to use clear and understandable language and emphasize the benefits of early mobility while also explaining the level of participation required from them.
References:
Fineout-Overhult, E., Williamson, K., Gallagher-Ford, L., Melnyk, B., & Stillwell, S. (2011). Evidence-based practice, step by step: Following the evidence: Planning for sustainable change. American Journal of Nursing, 111(1), 54-60.
The Denver Foundation’s Inclusiveness Project. (n.d.). Identifying internal and external stakeholders. Retrieved from http://nonprofitinclusiveness.org/identifying-internal-and-external-stakeholders