Potential Change Theories and Leadership Strategies
Developing an interdisciplinary solution to organizational issues such as inefficient patient discharge processes requires integrating potential change theories and leadership strategies. Change Management Theories like Kurt Lewin’s three-stage model of unfreezing, changing, and refreezing provide a structured approach to transforming existing processes. This theory is particularly relevant for breaking down entrenched discharge procedures and introducing new, more efficient interdisciplinary practices. Additionally, Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model offers a comprehensive framework that starts with creating a sense of urgency and builds up to embedding new approaches into the organization’s culture. This model is adept at ensuring stakeholder buy-in and sustaining long-term changes in complex healthcare settings. The ADKAR Model, which focuses on awareness, desire, knowledge, ability, and reinforcement, is also valuable. It ensures that each team member is prepared for and committed to the change, which is crucial in multidisciplinary environments where success depends on the collaboration of diverse professionals (Dietl et al., 2023).
Leadership Strategies play a crucial role in guiding these changes. Transformational Leadership is especially effective in interdisciplinary settings as it motivates and inspires team members to innovate and excel beyond their usual limits. This leadership style can foster a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability, which is essential in dynamic healthcare environments. Servant Leadership, emphasizing the growth and well-being of team members, can facilitate stronger collaboration and communication within interdisciplinary teams. This approach ensures that the team is well-supported and members are empowered to contribute effectively to the change process. Situational Leadership, which adapts leadership style to the team’s maturity and situation, is also beneficial. This flexibility allows leaders to provide more guidance and support during the early stages of the change process and to foster more independence as team members become more proficient in the new processes (Yamamoto, 2022).
These change theories and leadership strategies are supported by extensive research. They have succeeded in various healthcare settings, making them highly credible and relevant for addressing patient discharge processes. They provide:
Most Relevant Sources
A recent study examined the use of the FOCUS-PDSA model in healthcare, focusing on processes and outcomes. This study is particularly relevant for understanding how PDSA cycles can be adapted and applied to enhance quality and process outcomes in a healthcare setting. The most relevant source for this study is the nurse champion. Applying these theories and strategies at City General Hospital involves leveraging the PDSA cycle with active participation from interdisciplinary team members, such as baccalaureate-prepared nurses like Jane Doe. This approach can significantly enhance patient care and operational efficiency. By utilizing transformational leadership, collaborative strategies, and evidence-based change management theories, the hospital can effectively address the inefficiencies in its patient discharge process (Abuzied et al., 2023).