Date of Graduation

Summer 8-8-2025

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Program

Kaiser cohort MSN capstone

First Advisor

Dr. Liesel Buchner

Second Advisor

Dr. Sara Horton-Deutsch

Abstract

Abstract

Problem: This quality improvement project addresses inconsistent leadership communication among Assistant Nurse Managers (ANMs) in the Obstetrics (OB) department of a hospital in Northern California. ANM and staff concerns around shift handoff, huddles, and leadership responsiveness have created confusion and hindered team coordination. The project aims to improve communication effectiveness scores among OB ANMs from 50% to 75% by July 11, 2025.

Context: The project was conducted in the Maternal-Child-Health (MCH) unit of a hospital in Northern California, specifically targeting communication practices among OB ANMs. Concerns around communication practices were voiced by both ANM leadership and frontline staff, signaling a need for structured interventions.

Interventions: Two main tools were implemented to improve communication: a collaborative standardized end-of-shift handoff template and an updatable employee tracking system. These interventions were designed to ensure that consistent massaging, improved shift transitions, and enhance transparency in staff coordination and support.

Measures: A pre-intervention gap analysis and anonymous baseline staff survey revealed dissatisfaction with current communication methods. The intervention included implementing structured tools: a standardized end-of-shift handoff template and a collaborative staff tracking system. Communication effectiveness was measured using a follow-up anonymous survey over a six-week period.

Results: The post-survey results showed an increase in effective communication from 50% to 78%, indicating that the newly implemented tools had a positive impact on information sharing and team coordination.

Conclusions: The use of structured communication tools improved leadership communication effectiveness, enhanced ANM teamwork, and strengthened trust between leadership and staff. These interventions supported more consistent information sharing, improved shift coordination, and fostered a culture of collaboration, contributing to safer and higher-quality care in the OB setting.

Keywords: Assistant Nurse Managers, communication, obstetrics, quality improvement, Lewin’s Change Theory, Kaiser Permanente PPM, handoff tools, nursing leadership.

Download

Share

COinS