The Humanising Care Project Supporting a caring and creative culture for patients and staff in a Stroke Service through Being Human
Authors: Ellis-Hill, C., Bagnall, C. and Thomas, J.
Conference: Wessex CSIP Safety and Improvement Conference
Dates: 14 June 2017
Abstract:Project aim and objectives Aim: To determine if the Humanising Framework (a deep philosophically derived model) could be used to support humanising practice improvement.
Objectives: To determine: a) if staff and patients could recognise the Framework b) if staff could use the Framework to improve practice c) the outcomes that arose d) the processes which need to be in place to support change Actions taken (including methods used) Using a theory led appreciative action research approach, 6 staff, 5 previous stroke patients and 2 researchers met to learn together, for 9 one hour sessions, over 8 months.
Researchers created a safe space for participants (including researchers) to share their lived experiences of receiving, providing, and inquiring into stroke care. Arts based approaches were used to access knowing beyond words as well as forming a basis for deep sharing. Participants explored the meaning and relevance of the Humanisation Framework (Todres et al, 2009) in relation to personal experiences and stories about the human aspects of stroke care. Participants reflected on what was working well, impacts of dehumanising care and how to incorporate Being Human into staff and patient/relative care.
Meetings were audio-recorded and transcribed to inform a) subsequent sessions and b) our understanding of the processes involved. Follow-up discussions were held with the humanising champions and the ward sister, Stroke Unit, RBCH (not part of group) to identify personal and service level changes.
Measures and Outcomes Outcomes: Three levels i) Individual: staff reported an increased confidence in a) themselves and b) their ability to see and create positive humanising change in their environment.
ii) Practice: Staff became Humanising Champions who a) noticed and supported humanising practice b) went on to lead humanising improvements iii) Service: Indicators included: Family and Friends score 100%, few complaints, improvement in clinical indicators Learning outcomes and conclusions Small humanising or dehumanising moments make a big difference to the experience of people using healthcare services When staff are allowed to use their innate human knowing they can recognise and create humanising moments to support staff wellbeing and contribute to patient safety.
Source: Manual