Nurse Toolkit for Patient Safety

Sharkiya, S. H. (2023). Quality communication can improve patient-centered health outcomes among older patients: A rapid review. BMC Health Services Research, 23(1), 886. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-09869-8

This article examines how effective communication strategies, including both verbal and non-verbal approaches, significantly improve patient-centered outcomes for older adults. The study highlights the importance of communication techniques such as active listening, eye contact, and clear explanations to build trust and enhance patient satisfaction. Specific strategies like the teach-back method and non-verbal cues, such as nodding and gentle touch, are explored as impactful tools for improving care delivery. This resource provides practical insights into how nurses can tailor communication to meet the needs of older patients, improving their understanding and adherence to treatment plans. Nurses can use this resource to identify communication strategies that foster trust, reduce misunderstandings, and improve health outcomes among older adults. This is particularly useful during discharge planning or follow-up care for elderly patients.

Mielke, K., Frerichs, W., Cöllen, K., et al. (2024). Perspective on patient-centered communication: A focus group study investigating the experiences and needs of nursing professionals. BMC Nursing, 23, 822. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-024-02487-7

This peer-reviewed study explores the experiences of nursing professionals with patient-centered communication and highlights the challenges they face, including dealing with aggressive patients, managing emotional stress, and addressing language barriers. The authors conducted focus group interviews with 31 nurses across diverse medical disciplines and identified key skills needed for effective communication, such as empathy, managing escalating situations, and communicating about serious illness, death, and dying. This study provides valuable insights into the communication challenges nurses experience daily and underscores the need for structured communication skills training (CST) tailored to various clinical settings. Nurses can utilize the study findings to reflect on their communication practices and prioritize skill development in areas such as de-escalation techniques, cultural sensitivity, and addressing end-of-life conversations. Healthcare leaders can use this resource to design effective CST programs that meet nurses' needs and improve patient care outcomes.

Howick, J., Bennett-Weston, A., Solomon, J., et al. (2024). How does communication affect patient safety? Protocol for a systematic review and logic model. BMJ Open, 14(5), e085312. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-085312

This article presents a systematic review protocol designed to examine how communication impacts patient safety. It highlights the significance of practitioner-patient and interprofessional communication in reducing adverse events, medical errors, and near-miss incidents. The authors propose a logical model to explore the relationships between communication types (e.g., verbal, non-verbal, written) and patient safety outcomes, detailing the methods for data collection and synthesis. This protocol underscores the critical role of effective communication in healthcare by providing a structured approach to understanding its influence on patient safety. It offers valuable insights for developing communication strategies aimed at preventing safety incidents.Healthcare professionals and administrators can leverage this resource to identify communication gaps and implement targeted interventions, such as training programs or enhanced handoff protocols, to minimize errors and improve patient outcomes. The findings can also inform policy and practice guidelines to foster a culture of safety.

Singh, H., Fulton, J., Mirzazada, S., et al. (2023). Community-Based Culturally Tailored Education Programs for Black Adults with Chronic Diseases: A Systematic Review. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 10, 2986–3006. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615-022-01474-5

This systematic review investigates the characteristics, outcomes, and implementation strategies of community-based culturally tailored education (CBCTE) programs designed to address chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, in Black communities. The review synthesizes findings from 74 studies, predominantly conducted in the United States, highlighting the use of five culturally tailoring strategies: peripheral, evidential, linguistic, constituent-involving, and sociocultural. Key outcomes included improved physiological measures, health literacy, and medication adherence. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how culturally tailored interventions can reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes for Black adults. It is particularly useful for healthcare providers and educators seeking to design programs that are culturally responsive and community-driven. Healthcare administrators and program designers can utilize the insights from this review to implement CBCTE programs tailored to specific cultural and linguistic needs. The strategies outlined in the study are applicable across various chronic diseases and can inform the development of patient education materials and intervention frameworks that prioritize cultural competence.

Kamau, S., Koskenranta, M., Kuivila, H., et al. (2022). Integration strategies and models to support transition and adaptation of culturally and linguistically diverse nursing staff into healthcare environments: An umbrella review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 136, 104377. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2022.104377

This umbrella review investigates integration strategies and models designed to support the transition and adaptation of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) nursing staff into healthcare environments. The study synthesizes findings from 27 systematic and integrative reviews, categorizing strategies into three domains: intra-organizational, sociocultural, and professional development. Key strategies include cultural competency training, mentorship programs, language support, and structured orientation processes tailored to CALD nurses' needs. The findings emphasize the importance of organizational policies that foster diversity and inclusion, as well as support systems that address linguistic and cultural barriers. This paper is highly relevant for healthcare administrators and policymakers aiming to improve the integration of CALD staff into their organizations. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the unique challenges faced by CALD nurses and the interventions that can enhance their workplace adaptation and retention. Healthcare organizations can use this resource to design evidence-based programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the nursing workforce. The study's recommendations are particularly useful for developing targeted strategies, such as cultural training, peer support systems, and professional development initiatives, to facilitate a smooth integration process for CALD staff and improve overall workforce satisfaction and efficiency.

Rodriguez, K., Ryan, D., Dickinson, J. K., & Phan, V. (2022). Improving quality outcomes: The value of diabetes care and education specialists. Clinical Diabetes, 40(3), 356–365. https://doi.org/10.2337/cd21-0089

This article discusses the critical role of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (DCES) in improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with diabetes. It highlights the importance of integrating DCES into healthcare systems to deliver evidence-based diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES). The study emphasizes key competencies of DCES, such as providing person-centered care, addressing behavioral and psychosocial needs, and leveraging technology to enhance diabetes management. The authors advocate for broader adoption of DCES in care delivery models to address the rising burden of diabetes. This article is particularly relevant for healthcare providers and administrators seeking to improve quality outcomes for diabetes care. It underscores the importance of incorporating trained specialists who can provide interdisciplinary, patient-centered, and cost-effective care. Healthcare organizations can use this resource to develop or enhance care delivery models that integrate DCES into their teams. Nurses and other healthcare providers can adopt the evidence-based strategies described in this paper to improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and address gaps in diabetes care. The insights are particularly valuable for training programs and workflow integration initiatives aimed at chronic disease management.

Schultz, M. A. (2023). Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring Innovations in Nursing Practice: State of the Science. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 28(2). https://doi.org/10.3912/OJIN.Vol28No02ST01

This article explores the integration of telehealth and remote patient monitoring (RPM) into nursing practice, focusing on innovations that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. It reviews nurse-led projects that leverage these technologies to improve access to care, enhance quality, and reduce healthcare disparities. The study discusses the Nursing Now Challenge Global Solutions Initiative, which promotes nurse-driven solutions to global health challenges. It also highlights barriers such as the lack of formalized best practices and limited nurse training in advanced analytics and data science. This article is critical for understanding the evolving role of telehealth and RPM in nursing practice. It provides insights into how these technologies can transform patient care, particularly in remote or underserved areas, and emphasizes the need for further research and training in digital health tools. Nurses and healthcare administrators can use this resource to identify best practices for implementing telehealth and RPM systems effectively. It serves as a guide for designing nurse-led initiatives that incorporate digital tools to enhance patient monitoring and care delivery. The findings also underline the importance of investing in nurse training programs focused on data analytics and informatics to maximize the benefits of these technologies.

Ghozali, M. T. (2023). Is integrating video into tech-based patient education effective for improving medication adherence? A review. Paladyn, Journal of Behavioral Robotics, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1515/pjbr-2022-0109

This review investigates the role of video-based digital interventions in improving medication adherence among patients with diabetes. It synthesizes findings from seven studies, highlighting the effectiveness of using video content in various formats, such as storytelling, mobile health (mHealth) apps, and web-based platforms, to enhance self-management and adherence behaviors. The study concludes that video-based education, when integrated into broader patient education programs, offers a promising approach for improving medication adherence and related health outcomes. It also emphasizes the importance of combining synchronous and asynchronous video tools for maximum impact. This article demonstrates the effectiveness of technology-driven educational tools, particularly video interventions, in supporting patient education and improving adherence in chronic disease management. It provides evidence-based strategies that can be applied to enhance patient outcomes through digital learning platforms. Healthcare professionals can use the findings to design and implement video-based education programs tailored to the needs of patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes. The study also serves as a guide for integrating digital tools into patient care strategies, emphasizing the importance of using engaging and accessible content to drive behavior change.

Haanes, G. G., Nilsen, E., Mofossbakke, R., et al. (2024). Digital learning in nursing education: Lessons from the COVID-19 lockdown. BMC Nursing, 23, 646. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-024-02312-1

This study explores the experiences of nursing students and newly qualified nurses with e-learning during the COVID-19 lockdown, focusing on how it influenced their learning and professional development. It identifies both opportunities, such as flexibility and accessibility, and challenges, such as technological difficulties, lack of engagement, and social isolation. The research highlights effective strategies, including small group interactions and scaffolding, to enhance the e-learning experience while addressing barriers like inadequate digital infrastructure and reduced peer interaction. This article provides key insights into the role of digital learning in nursing education, emphasizing its potential to supplement traditional clinical training while also addressing its limitations. The findings are particularly relevant for healthcare educators designing e-learning programs for professional development and patient education. Healthcare educators and administrators can utilize this study to implement digital learning tools effectively, balancing theoretical content with simulated clinical experiences. The findings can also inform strategies to enhance student engagement, mitigate isolation, and develop reliable technological support systems for e-learning environments.

Khatri, R., Endalamaw, A., Erku, D., et al. (2023). Continuity and coordination of primary health care: A scoping review. BMC Health Services Research, 23(750). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-09718-8

This article reviews the critical aspects of care coordination and continuity within primary healthcare (PHC) systems. It identifies three key levels of care coordination: individual (e.g., relational continuity between patients and providers), organizational (e.g., multidisciplinary collaboration and integrated care), and system-wide (e.g., multisectoral coordination across health and non-health sectors). The review highlights the benefits of effective care coordination, such as improved patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and enhanced service efficiency. Challenges, such as fragmented care, poor communication, and resource limitations, are also explored. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of care coordination and its importance in PHC systems. It is particularly valuable for understanding the organizational and system-level dynamics of healthcare coordination, making it relevant for initiatives focused on improving workflow integration and multidisciplinary collaboration. Healthcare providers and administrators can use this study to identify areas of improvement in care coordination and continuity. The findings can guide the development of strategies to strengthen communication, integrate care across sectors, and address challenges such as resource shortages and service fragmentation. This resource is especially useful for designing training programs and workflow models that emphasize continuity of care.

Hibbert, P. D., Stewart, S., Wiles, L. K., et al. (2023). Improving patient safety governance and systems through learning from successes and failures: Qualitative surveys and interviews with international experts. International Journal for Quality in Health Care, 35(5), mzad088. https://doi.org/10.1093/intqhc/mzad088

This article examines global patient safety governance systems, focusing on identifying barriers and facilitators for improving patient outcomes. The study uses qualitative surveys and interviews with international experts to assess four key themes: fostering a safety culture, implementing impactful policies and processes, supporting staff through education and engagement, and enhancing patient engagement. The authors propose a governance model emphasizing the need for sustainable, data-driven patient safety initiatives. This resource provides valuable insights into the systems-level factors influencing patient safety, highlighting the importance of leadership, staff support, and patient engagement. It serves as a guide for healthcare administrators and policymakers seeking to establish or refine governance structures aimed at improving safety outcomes. Healthcare organizations and leaders can utilize this framework to design effective safety governance policies, improve organizational culture, and invest in staff training. The findings can also inform strategies for engaging patients and fostering a collaborative safety environment.

Handtke, O., Schilgen, B., & Mösko, M. (2019). Culturally competent healthcare – A scoping review of strategies implemented in healthcare organizations and a model of culturally competent healthcare provision. PLOS ONE, 14(7), e0219971. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0219971

This scoping review examines strategies and components for providing culturally competent healthcare within healthcare organizations. The study synthesizes findings from 67 studies to identify 20 categories of culturally competent healthcare components, organized into four levels: individual, organizational, access strategies, and implementation strategies. The review highlights interventions such as recruiting bilingual staff, using linguistically and culturally tailored materials, and providing cultural competency training for providers. The proposed model emphasizes organizational adaptation and leadership involvement to reduce disparities for culturally and linguistically diverse patients (CLDP). This article provides comprehensive insights into practical and evidence-based strategies for enhancing cultural competence in healthcare. It is especially valuable for designing interventions that address language and cultural barriers in patient care, contributing to equitable access and improved health outcomes for diverse populations. Healthcare administrators and educators can use this resource to design culturally competent training programs and develop organizational policies. The strategies identified are applicable for improving provider-patient communication, reducing health disparities, and fostering an inclusive healthcare environment. This paper is particularly useful for creating action plans to integrate cultural competence into existing healthcare systems.