Project Introduction

Improving the Staffing Structure at an Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Facility

Individuals admitted for acute inpatient psychiatric care are among the sickest and most vulnerable of the mentally ill and often have one or more medical comorbidities that compound their needs (Delaney et al., 2020). The nursing staff at the Pocasset Mental Health Center pride themselves on quality patient care but have reported frustration with missing support structures. Data indicates low compliance with nursing documentation expectations for medication teaching, and mandatory training rates. Sick calls have been high, and retention of staff has been poor. The following plan to improve the nursing staffing structure promotes a culture of learning, compassion, and accountability to quality and performance standards and evidence-based practices where nursing staff can feel valued and have a sense of pride in their work. Included in the plan is the upgrade of a Nursing Care Coordinator (RN IV) to a Nurse Manager (RN V), training for nurses in patient teaching, documentation and auditing, increased RN presence, use of a Milieu Manager, and set times during each shift for learning and supervision.

Danielle Sullivan, MSN, RN, Director of Nursing, Pocasset Mental Health Center