Team Nursing Model
It is necessary to note that a number of nursing care delivery models have been developed, and each manager can choose the most appropriate one for the unit. Birmingham, Pickard, and Carson (2013) note that the most common models include total patient care, functional nursing, patient-focused care, private duty nursing, team nursing, primary nursing. The researchers also add that nursing professionals often utilize various combinations of the models mentioned above.
As the manager of my unit, I would choose the team nursing model. This model is based on the teamwork of nursing professionals. A small group of nurses is created, and they are assigned a small group of patients. The team consists of the team leader, RN, LVNs, and nursing assistants. Thus, there can be only four or five members in each team. The leader is aware of all the data concerning the patients assigned to their team including the diagnosis, treatment plan, needs, and peculiarities. The team leader also assigns tasks to every member of the team. Furthermore, the leader is responsible for creating the necessary working environment characterized by collaboration.
I would choose this model as it enables the nursing professionals to provide a comprehensive and high-quality care to patients. The nurses are aware of the peculiarities and health conditions of the patients who are assigned to the team. Moreover, each team member may contribute to the delivery of care. The concept of diversity is the major characteristics of the team and its major strength. The team of nursing professionals can address different aspects of care as every person has own perspective on the delivery of care.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Team Nursing Model
As has been mentioned above, team nursing model can be very effective in a clinical setting and can ensure the delivery of high-quality care. The team of nursing professionals can collaborate effectively to address all the needs of the patient. As for the advantages, members can contribute to the provision of the high-quality care as each of them has a specific perspective on care delivery, a set of competencies and skills. Stockert (2014) also notes that the autonomy the team leader has is a significant strength of the model. Thus, the team leader develops the care plan and assigns team members to perform different tasks. Clearly, the team leader knows the team well enough to make sure that the assigned tasks can be fulfilled properly. The hierarchy is also an advantage as there is clarity concerning tasks and people responsible for them.
The model also has some shortcomings. One of the most important downsides is the reliance on the team leader’s leadership skills (Stockert, 2014). If the team leader does not have strong leadership skills, the team is likely to operate ineffectively. Secondly, the development of teams can also be challenging as each team should be able to meet all the assigned patients’ needs. Thirdly, delegating tasks may take certain time, which means that extended period of time is needed to provide some healthcare services. In some cases, this can lead to the patient’s dissatisfaction or some confusion concerning the delivery of care.
However, irrespective of the disadvantages, the team nursing model is associated with various opportunities for nursing professionals. Clearly, it is critical to make sure that the model is implemented properly. It is important to choose the effective team leader and make sure that all services are provided in a timely manner.
References
Birmingham, S.E., Pickard, B., & Carson, L. (2013). Staffing and scheduling. In D. Huber (Ed.), Leadership and nursing care management (pp. 367-387). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Health Sciences.
Stockert, P.A. (2014). Managing patient care. In P.A. Potter, A.G. Perry, P. Stockert, & A. Hall (Eds.), Essentials for nursing practice (pp. 225-239). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Health Sciences.