Topic > Shared governance in the healthcare sector: pros and cons

“Despite the failure of shared governance to “get it” in some hospitals, and its demise in others due to takeovers, makeovers, administrator participation fatigue, and meeting-weary nurses, there is hardly a negative note among the true believers. ” (Hess, 2014.) Nursing shared governance is a very useful resource and tool in the healthcare environment. Not only does shared governance and the nursing council model empower nurses in an organization, but it also allows the work to flow correctly and decisions to be made proactively. This article will discuss the organizational structure of shared nursing governance. Get an original essay on “Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned”? how nursing shared governance is structured is very important. There are various councils that have a single purpose and are centered on the needs of the hospital or company in which they work. For illustrative purposes, we will name five unitary councils as few recommendations as meet the needs of any organization The various recommendations displayed in the figure below are “Practice”, “Quality”, “Education”, “Management” and “Coordination”. The central operational board is the place where all ideas, problems and information come together so that they can be disseminated to all interested people and issues can be addressed. Unit councils are capable of making unit-level decisions and are part of other shared governance councils. The issues addressed by the various councils will be matters directly affecting their jurisdiction and designation. For example, the need for continuing education and training would be addressed by the unit or education committee. Coordination of programs or activities can be undertaken by the coordination committee, although ideally it should also make use of the input of the management committee. The committees are able to work independently, but are also able to coordinate with other committees and all information and decisions are provided to the operational board. “Shared governance is an organizational model through which nurses control their practice and influence administrative areas.” (Hess, 2014.) Keep in mind: This is just one example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Councils operate much like the government in that they have specific committees or councils that determine and work on specific processes. Nurses submit their concerns or questions to a specific committee and also have the opportunity to serve on designated committees. It is essentially a system by nurses for nurses. Final approvals are made at the senior staff or management level. The president and co-president have the final say within the councils. Depending on the issue a staff member is experiencing, they may approach the committee or board under which the issue in question falls. Shared governance is a great way to boost morale and productivity. Not only are nurses better able to express their concerns, but they also have a say in how designated departments are managed and how they put their skills and care into practice..