Change Theories in Nursing

Change is a critical element of nursing that helps to reconsider a problematic situation and introduce an effective solution to achieve positive results. The importance of this process can be evidenced with the help of the following scenario.

A specific health unit is characterized by an unacceptably high level of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). It results in high readmission rates, development of complications, and decreased patients’ satisfaction with the quality of provided services. For this reason, the intervention is critical to reconsider the given tendency and attain positive outcomes. The application of Lewin’s change theory can be recommended in the given situation (Mitchell, 2013).

It presupposes the three stages, which are unfreezing, change, and refreezing (Gorbunoff & Kummeth, 2014). During the first phase, the problematic issue should be analyzed to prepare for change. Speaking about the high rate of HAI, the root reasons for them should be outlined with the help of investigation tools such as surveys, observations, and interviews. The main cause is the disregard of hand hygiene guidelines both by patients and specialists.

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For this reason, the approaches to introduce a positive change in this sphere are demeaned. During the change phase, the electronic hand hygiene monitoring tool should be integrated with the functioning of the health unit to ensure the improvement of the situation (Elizabeth, 2017). Moreover, patients and workers should be explained how to follow the existing guidelines to achieve positive results.

Finally, during the refreezing stage, the positive alteration should be solidified to preserve the high quality of care delivery and minimize the HAI’s rate. In such a way, the application of Lewin’s change theory will have a positive impact on the functioning of the selected unit and ensure that both patients and clients will benefit from a safer environment.

References

Elizabeth, M. (2017). Nursing leadership and management for patient safety and quality care. New York, NY: F.A. Davis Company.