STAND Method: Changing Nursing Culture from the Bedside Up
Changing Nursing Culture from the Bedside Up Brian Wharton, MSN, RN II, CPEN Andrea Kasprenski, MSN, RNIII, APRN, NP C, CEN Cherie Ward, MSN, RNIII, CEN ABSTRACT: Nursing culture depends on several factors and can have both positive and negative effects on nurses and on patient care. According to a review of literature and the Magnet model, it is highly recognized that when people are in an environment that fosters growth, encourages diversity and learning, employees become more engaged, are more dedicated and have a higher level of dedication. The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics (2015) is the standard for nurses to establish their personal and professional guidelines for professional and ethical values. Nurses have the responsibility of compassionately investing in other nurses by developing their self worth, fostering confidence, and valuing their uniqueness. The ANA's Principles of Environmental Health for Nursing Practice (2015) states, "a healthy work environment is one that is safe, empowering, and satisfying..it is not merely the absence of real and perceived threats to health, but a place of physical, mental, and social well being, supporting optimal health and safety." Stressful work environments can: create anxiety have negative physical and psychological consequences for nurses perpetuate feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness lead to a decrease in nursing knowledge and advancement and an increase in turnover and career changes, which may result in poor patient outcomes. The creators of the STAND method identified the previous nursing culture not being in alignment with Christiana Care's Core Values and did not foster the growth of newer nurses and often the "eat your young" motto was adopted by nurses of tenure. The STAND method was then developed.