Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan YM(1), Lee SW(1), Lee KC(1), Leung LM(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Nursing Services Division, United Christian Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Caring culture
Keyword 2: :
Communication
Keyword 4: :
Improved retention
Introduction :
United Christian Hospital has a robust clinical teaching team focused on nurturing new nurses through its Preceptorship Program-ToUCH Program since 2014. Fostering a caring culture within healthcare settings is essential to support the development of new practitioners and enhance mentoring relationships which is central to our mission. To this end, a series of strategies were implemented by clinical teaching team to cultivate this caring culture.
Objectives :
•To enhance the support system for nursing graduates
•To foster resilience and equip graduates with the necessary tools for confidence in their roles
•To improve communication capabilities of graduates when interacting with patients and families
Methodology :
Our approach is based on the 4C framework:
1.Coherence: Early engagement with graduates through the Pre-RN TUNS Enhancement Program facilitates prompt communication and aligns shared information with the organizational culture, fostering a consistent and supportive environment. As a result, we effectively build trust and rapport from the outset.
2.Comprehensive Support: Nearly every ward is assigned a clinical teacher, with each specialty having its own designated clinical teacher. This structure ensures tailored support and addressing the unique needs of fresh graduates to boost their confidence.
3.Communication Skills Training: The UCH ToUCH program has integrated workshops focused on communication skills, including Team Dynamic Communication workshops that enhance collaboration among healthcare professionals, and Better Patient Communication Workshops, which equip graduates to interact effectively with patients.
4.Career Counseling: Personalized career counseling is provided before the second clinical rotation. The clinical teaching team discusses service development opportunities at UCH & KEC, helping graduates navigate their career paths and actively gathering feedback to address their concerns and aspirations.
Result & Outcome :
The initiatives have led to significant improvements in the confidence and resilience of fresh graduates, evidenced by validated self-administered questionnaires. In 2024, data from 91 preceptees indicated a lower mean score on the Adapted Occupational Stress Scale of Newly-graduated Nurses (OSSNN) compared to their onboarding period. Additionally, the attrition rate decreased by 1% from 2023 to 2024, indicating improved retention. A survey regarding career development and first-year experience indicated that the hospital effectively supports staff in reaching their potential. Preceptees reported strengths in demonstrating a caring attitude and resilience in stressful situations.
Ultimately, these initiatives enhance professional development while fostering a stronger teaching culture. They provide strategies to cultivate a caring environment, contributing to improved patient outcomes in our healthcare system.
