Increasing value-adding patient care by applying a modified TCAB program

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to evaluate a development process aimed at increasing registered nurses’ (RNs) working time use in value-adding patient care by applying a modified Transforming Care at the Bedside (TCAB) program at inpatient units of two tertiary hospitals.Design/methodology/approachBasic data for the development process were collected on RNs’ working time use via external observation in 2011 (RNs = 113). Nursing work was redesigned and implemented by 12 multi-professional teams during 2012-2013. The development process was evaluated by repeating the collection of RNs’ working time use data in 2013 (RNs = 95) and by analyzing the memos of the development teams via deductive content analysis (N = 64).FindingsRNs’ working time use showed statistically significant increases in value-adding care and direct patient care but decreases in non-value-added work and miscellaneous work. Changes in the nursing work model, division of labor and the nursing work environment all affected RNs’ working time use.Practical implicationsThe development process progressed distinctively in each unit, as shown by the results of the development work. Clinical RNs had key roles as innovators and change agents, yet the engagement of nursing managers was most essential for the success of the development work.Originality/valueEven minor changes in nurses’ daily work profile can have considerable effects on RNs’ work. The TCAB program was shown to be a useful method in developing RNs’ work also in psychiatric units.