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GBMC 's revised professional practice model took effect in January 2009. Staff wanted a more unit-based system so that the nurses would have greater ability to improve patient care on their own units.
The Professional Practice Council Model, starts with unit-based nursing practice teams. Each clinical unit now has two of its own practice teams in place. These unit-based practice teams enable the decision making process to begin with bedside nurses on that unit. One team on every unit focuses on customer service while the other is centered on evidence-based practice (only making those changes that are supported by research and evidence).
Along with a manager, the chairperson from each unit council will then serve on one of four Specialty Councils (critical care, med/surg, maternal/newborn and perioperative). The Specialty Council meetings allow open exchange of information between several units that specialize in the same type of care. Members can share ideas generated on the unit level or develop solutions for challenges that affect all nurses of the specialty.
Representatives from each Specialty Council will attend the Professional Practice Council meetings, where Nursing executive leaders, administrative directors and educators consider major protocols and initiatives that apply to nurses hospital wide. Decision-making on strategic topics like fall prevention, hand hygiene and patient flow will be made at this level.
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