2005 Resolution - 004

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SUBJECT: Patient Safety Nurse Respect

Introduced by: UAN Executive Council

Action: Passed 3/17/05

WHEREAS, a significant number of medical errors are due to human error; and

WHEREAS, patient safety can be enhanced through improved communication among healthcare professionals; and

WHEREAS, the last UAN poll of staff nurses underscored the serious concern of nurse ñ doctor communication and the lack of respect in the workplace; and

WHEREAS, a comprehensive, cohesive, and coordinated effort is needed to address quality patient care by incorporating error management systems which change the culture of the workplace and which reduce the risk of recrimination and encourage open communication; and

WHEREAS, the UAN seeks to advance these objectives on behalf of the patients and its members; and

WHEREAS, professional peer recognition of the skills and experiences of nurses on the job will assist in attracting nurses to the bedside; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UAN undertake a review of the existing efforts to improve patient care through addressing cultural and social communication barriers at the worksite as well as error management reporting systems; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UAN solicit members with expertise in this area to assist as advisors; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UAN develop a program to educate our members, the public and the industry about the importance of improving communication and showing respect among health care providers in order to reduce medical errors and measurably improve patient outcomes.