Nursing staff response to a facility's relocation.

Abstract

RESPONSE RATE--approximately 200 questionnaires were distributed and 101 were returned and collated. The response rate was 51 percent. ORIENTATION--the results were as follows: 89 percent of staff surveyed attended orientation; many staff took more than one tour (55.6 percent had two or more), which may be an important factor in adjustment; 75.2 percent indicated tht orientation was relevant, and those who did not recommended more specific unit orientation; and 31 percent said there was too much information and perhaps this should be examined in future orientation programs. OMISSIONS--many commented that specific, hands-on orientation to the equipment such as telephones and the call system would have been beneficial, as well as orientation to their own specific unit. Smaller orientation groups would also seem to be warranted in light of this information. COMMUNICATION CONCERNING THE MOVE--approximately 79 percent of the staff attended at least one staff meeting prior to the move, and 78 percent knew of the moving schedule. However, subsequent (and frequent) changes in this schedule were mentioned as a source of frustration. About 13 percent indicated a need for more staff input into the move and would suggest more open forums or discussion groups to solicit input as a way of increasing staff participation and commitment to the move. A need for frequent, reliable written communication was mentioned frequently as misinformation or word-of-mouth information led to unnecessary frustrations. It is interesting to note that approximately 80 percent of respondents had no suggestions to improve communication, and it is difficult to know whether this may indicate satisfaction with communication mechanisms or a lack of ideas on how to improve the situation. SENSE OF PREPAREDNESS FOR THE MOVE--80.4 percent gave a high rating to indicate how prepared they felt regarding the move, which is really very positive. PROBLEMS ADJUSTING TO NEW ENVIRONMENT--most of the responses (48%) related to problems with communication systems, particularly the phone system, problems with the phone listing book and lack of directional signs. Suggestions for facilitating adjustment closely followed the above responses in that more and better signs, and more effective means for directing staff, patients and visitors, were frequently cited. CURRENT FRUSTRATIONS--respondents were asked to detail ongoing and current frustrations. Environmental concerns such as excessively dry air and the cleanliness of the building were noted and earmarked for further investigation. It is worthy of note that concerns relating to nurse staffing were mentioned very infrequently both during and after the move.