What does partnering for a healthy future look like?

Think Critically and Creatively About How to Fill Gaps and Inconsistencies Related to System Fire Drill Procedures

The organization currently uses a variety of procedures for planning, conducting, and documenting fire drills. It may be in the best interest of our organization to consider updating the Policy and Procedures.

We can develop a Fire Drill Playbook -- bring together a community of subject matter experts and relevant partners to learn and cocreate fire drill policy and procedures that best meet the needs of our community and regulatory compliance standards. We will remember to ask if there are any voices missing who can meaningfully contribute to the discussion.

Use a Safety Story to Communicate Effectively Without Telling People What to Do

Keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. On average, healthcare providers clean their hands less than half of the times they should.

Telling a compelling story about the importance of hand hygiene can help employees think about how they choose to help prevent infections.

Collaboration Between Facilities, Nursing, Compliance, and Safety to Maintain Accessible Emergency Equipment

During a regulatory survey the Fire Marshal cited the organization for several obstructed fire extinguishers, electrical panels, and manual fire alarm pull stations.

This multidisciplinary work group approached the plan of correction by working together with a learning mindset and in a safety culture where candor is encouraged.

Embrace Diversity by Including the Front Line on Issues that Impact the Work

A closed nursing unit was preparing for a renovation in the coming year. The Interior Design firm developed a set of options for paint colors, furniture fabrics, and flooring. Not all flooring types require the same cleaning process and schedule.

The opinions of the EVS team count -- they know what it takes to clean and maintain the various flooring types. Asking for and considering their input leads to more informed decision-making.

Implement Equitable and Inclusive Practices for Employees who Work in the Operating Room (OR)

An employee’s religious beliefs inform them to wear a long skirt when outside of the home. It is also the regulatory standard to wear approved scrub tops and pants while working in the OR environment – this includes while terminal cleaning these spaces.

In this situation, we have the opportunity to equitably treat this employee, and meet the regulatory compliance standards. We just need to be creative.

Advocate Powerfully on Behalf of the Public by Ensuring the Functionality and Safety of Our Healing Spaces

When we see a wet lobby floor we must minimize the risk of a slip and fall with injury. Respond by deploying a wet floor sign, then speak up to have the wet floor cleaned up, and then address the root cause.

This is an opportunity to enable and sustain a culture of safety through a display of leader commitment and prioritization of safety. People do pay attention to where a leader focuses their attention.

Imagine New Possibilities to Accomplish Positive Change: Help Patients Find Their Way

Upon arriving to the hospital, it can be disorienting and confusing to find your way to the correct location to receive service. We may be feeling stressed and unwell, we might not be familiar with the facility, or the signage may be challenging to decipher.

This is a ripe opportunity to practice empathy -- attempt to see and feel how our patients experience wayfinding within our healing spaces. By practicing being present with our patients, we can learn their perspectives, and then reflect on the possibilities that may help ease their way.