Brewster Place in Topeka and Village Manor in Abilene recently took part in a quality improvement project with Washburn University School of Nursing Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) students. The students helped each organization learn and begin implementing TeamSTEPPS® strategies and tools for communication and teambuilding.
The graduate students worked with each organization to identify a guiding team and assess organizational views of teamwork and readiness for change. The results of the assessments were used to tailor a TeamSTEPPS® Fundamentals and TeamSTEPPS Master Training course for each organization. The two organizations were supported in developing an action plan for implementing the tools and strategies with the goal of improving communication, safety and outcomes for residents.
In total, 45 staff members were trained by the students using the TeamSTEPPS® Fundamentals curriculum. Thirty-five staff members became TeamSTEPPS® Master Trainers by attending a second day of training. These individuals can now use the free curriculum and train others.
What do the they have to say about TeamSTEPPS®?
Since beginning to implement TeamSTEPPS® we are seeing improved communication and care. The STEPPS work!” Andy, Executive Director Village Manor
“The tools have helped to break some conflict and brought us closer as a team.” Brooke, COTA Brewster Place
“I have more time to get my stuff done. They can solve problems without getting me. The tools work. Amy, DON Village Manor
“So many people are coming out of their shell and getting more involved. The tools gave them a voice.” Debbie, Social Worker Village Manor
Interested in learning more about TeamSTEPPS® or having your team trained?
Regional training opportunities will be coming starting in August. These two-day trainings will be open to any nursing home or long-term care unit in state of Kansas and are provided through the TeamSTEPPS® grant project funded by KDADS. The goal of the grant is to help organizations use the tools to reduce Antipsychotic use rates but the impact of the consistent communication and team building strategies will be beneficial in other areas too. Watch for more details and registration materials in the coming months.
Brewster Place and Village Manor had the opportunity to have organizational assessment and in-house training. You can too! As part of the TeamSTEPPS® grant, funded by KDADS, six homes will have the opportunity to work with Washburn University School of Nursing faculty and LeadingAge Kansas staff members to have organizational assessments, tailored training on-site, technical support and follow-up data analysis. Interested in learning more? Contact Stephanie Gfeller at stephanie@leadingagekansas.org or (785) 233-7443 ext. 104.
