Keywords

collaboration, evidence-based practice, excellence in safety and quality, organizational culture, professional development, shared governance

Authors

1. Tagnesi, Kathryn MA, BSN, RN, NEA-BC
2. Dumont, Cheryl PhD, MSN, RN
3. Rawlinson, Cynthia BA, BS
4. Byrd, Harry III

Abstract

Moving a southern rural community medical center through the multitude of regulatory, fiscal, social, cultural, and political changes required for healthcare excellence in the early 21st century has provided some particularly unique challenges. This article describes opportunities and initiatives taken by a chief nursing officer and key members of the healthcare team to meet the challenges of moving a rural and rapidly growing healthcare system toward excellence. The initiatives and perspectives of the team, the chief nursing officer, performance improvement/quality corporate director, the board chairman, and nursing leaders, are presented.