Date of Graduation

Spring 5-15-2025

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Program

MSN project

First Advisor

Michael Ng, MS, AGACNP-BC

Abstract

Objective: Intensive care units are associated with complex care and high acuity interventions, however, there is a potential for dehumanization of patients. With the focus being placed on life-saving interventions, many patients and their family members feel that they are not being treated beyond their medical diagnosis. Aim: This quality improvement project aims to address these barriers in care by designing and implementing communication whiteboards in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) at Hospital A to enhance patient and family-centered care, improve patient satisfaction, and enhance interdisciplinary communication. Post-implementation, the goal was to increase utilization of the standardized whiteboards from 0% to 75% by May 2025. Methods: Surveys were completed among staff members, patients, and their family members to determine the information that would be most beneficial to have on the whiteboards. Data from staff and patient surveys were analyzed to identify features with over 60% agreement for board implementation. These included favorite music, pronouns, hobbies, traditions, and family messages/photos. Results: Due to budget constraints, three communication whiteboards were created and piloted across the unit over a two-week period. Results from the pilot found that there was a 60% utilization rate of the new whiteboards highlighting the feasibility of broader implementation. Conclusion: The original aim of this project to achieve 75% utilization was not met, however given the limitations of this project, a 60% utilization rate and positive feedback from staff, patients, and their families prove a strong initial adoption.

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