1. Empowerment in Nursing: Looking Backward to Inform the Future Col. Binu Sharma VP-Nursing Columbia Asia Hospitals India

2. The retarded development of nursing and nursing profession seems to be mainly due to the fact that no serious thought has been given to this discipline.. This is because of the lack of autonomy of this profession Way forward What is empowerment? Introduction

3.  There are compelling reasons to empower nurses. Powerless nurses are ineffective nurses. Powerless nurses are less satisfied with their jobs and more susceptible to burn out  Empowerment for nurses may consist of three components: a)a workplace that has the requisite structures to promote empowerment; b)a psychological belief in one’s ability to be empowered; c) acknowledgement that there is power in the relationships and caring that nurses provide Why empowerment ?

4.  DEFINITION:- To operate by itself and with Enthusiasm What is Empowerment?

5. Empowerment & Governance -NE  To empower nurses in Decision Making in relation to patient’s health care needs  To demonstrate Autonomy And Assertiveness In Problem-Solving Approach towards patient care  To empower nurses in Protecting Patient Rights Purpose of nursing Empowerment

6.  Documented Policy  It shall be carried out by a registered nurse.  Must be supported with the documentary evidence Guidelines

7.  Nurses shall be trained & empowered to make independent decision for positioning, use of comfort devices in regard to pressure ulcer based on Braden Score Assessment.  Nurses shall ensure safety of patient by ensuring appropriate hand hygiene practice  Nurses shall participate in patient triaging and escalate immediate requirements to physicians/ senior nurses  All Nurses shall be trained in BLS and shall initiate CPR timely based on critical condition of the patient Procedure:

8.  Nurse shall announce various hospital emergency codes based on situations  Nurses are empowered and motivated to report medication errors and adverse events  Nurse based upon clinical understanding and skills can independently administer 25% dextrose timely to manage acute hypoglycemia ( RBS < 40 mg )  Nurse shall start oxygen administration in case of Spo2 is < 85 %  Link Nurse are empowered to audit infection control practices for all health care workers Procedure:

9.  Nurses are empowered to counsel the patient & family members regarding various treatment modalities (Potential to fall counseling/Infection control /Wound care etc.)  Nurse shall be empowered to voice out any incidents of misbehavior/misconduct at workplace.  Representation in various committees  Supported by Continuing Education, training, Incentives & Innovations  Promoting IPR Procedure:

10.  Hospitals have taken Baby steps  Need to think beyond a policy document  Lessons from Magnet Hospitals  Empower Indian Nurses in the true sense and make them feel proud Conclusion :

11. ...a truly empowering environment for nurses should nurture reciprocal professional relationships.

12.  THANK YOU