shared governance

Originally posted by m.surowka:

I'm a staff nurse on a general pediatric unit.we recently lost our nurse manager and would like to consider shared governance on our unit does anybody have any words of wisdom or suggestions for me thanks for your help. m.surowka

First, seek out literature by Tim Porter-O'Grady. Second, call some of the hospitals that use (or did use) the shared governance model (St. Joseph's in Atlanta is a good example). Third, make sure your adminstration is supportive of the model (can be costly). There are many pros and cons, so you need to be well versed when you present your proposal...

chas

I agree with Chas in that you should seek out information from Tim Porter-O'Grady on Shared Governance. I managed for several years in a facility wherein his model for SG was operationalized. My experience was a good one, particularly in that it was an expectation for staff involvement in decisions related to clinical practice. That aspect alone saved me a great deal of work as it pertained to developing standards of practice, etc. However, it didn't take away my responsibility to mentor, coach and guide staff as they made these decisions. Watching and aiding them in their growth was quite rewarding for me.

There were times when I needed to help them differentiate between "shared" governance and "self" governance. These are two completely different concepts, which can be blurred without the proper guidance and boundary setting.

Lastly, Shared Governance needs to be an organinzational commitment. Again, as Chas stated there are pro's and con's to the model. Certainly do your homework.