NDNQI RN Satisfaction Survey: An Instrument to Generate Sustainable Empirical Quality Outcomes

Purpose:
Since 2008, PPMC nurses have participated in the annual NDNQI RN Survey with PES to identify opportunities to facilitate professional nursing practice and to enhance the quality of patient care processes and outcomes. Strong participation of nurses in the survey is critical for accuracy of results.

Significance:
Tracking nurse satisfaction data is an integral component of improving healthcare delivery, and understanding perspective of DCNs is essential. In order to achieve sustainable results, the very satisfaction that is measured, tracked, and analyzed must include DCN involvement.

Strategy and Implementation:
In 2010, PPMC's Nursing Shared Governance Leadership Council (NSGLC), which is co-chaired by DCN Charles Belmont, conducted the NDNQI survey. To encourage 100% response rate in the NDNQI survey, PPMC uses strategic incentives and reminders. Once the survey data is compiled and reviewed, the NSGLC selects one hospital-wide opportunity for improvement. Unit Council Chairs present both the hospital-wide and unit-specific data to their Unit Councils for review. It is at this crucial step when DCNs compare data from previous surveys and assess the effectiveness of action plans based on the results. The Unit Council and Nurse Manager also select a satisfaction indicator specific to their unit to improve. The resulting action plan for each unit includes these opportunities for improvement, actions to be taken, the baseline score, the goal score, the timeframe in which the action will take place, and finally, the outcome.

Evaluation:
Between 2008 and 2010, results include increased hospital-wide and unit-level NDNQI nursing satisfaction scores, decreased nosocomial infections, and an increase in the Nursing Certification Rate for DCNs. PPMC has achieved a 99-100% survey response rate for eligible nurses for all three years.

Implications for Practice:
Input from DCNs creates opportunities to strengthen a Culture of Excellence. Through a philosophy of shared leadership, shared accountability, and intellect of inquiry, PPMC promotes dialogue to bring about positive change, creating a work environment in which patients can receive world-class care.