Assessing the Impact of "Survivor Updates" On Staff Caring for Bone Marrow Transplant Patients

Assessing the Impact of “Survivor Updates” on Staff Caring for Bone Marrow Transplant Patients

Background

An interdisciplinary team was formed to look at job satisfaction and turnover among inpatient staff caring for bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients. It was recognized that only negative patient outcomes were shared among inpatient staff. The concept of providing “Survivor Updates” was suggested to communicate positive outcomes of BMT patients to staff. We developed the clinical question: Does providing “Survivor Updates” vs. not providing “Survivor Updates” improve job satisfaction and retention among staff caring for BMT patients? The Model for Evidence-Based Practice Change, (Larrabee, 2009), was used for this project. A literature search was conducted. Eight articles were critically appraised and a moderate grade was assigned. No one study answered our question. A review of the literature demonstrated that staff caring for BMT patients is exposed to many stressors. Stressors included: working with critically ill and dying patients, caring for complex patients and their families, dealing with conflicts, experiencing feelings of helplessness and fatigue. Stressors may lead to burnout which can contribute to decreased job satisfaction and higher rates of turnover.

Implementation

Post- BMT patients and their families were approached about participating in the “Survivor Updates” project. After obtaining informed consent, post -BMT patients were photographed and completed a brief questionnaire regarding their current activities and quality of life. These “Survivor Updates” are emailed to staff that cares for BMT patients. The email introduces the project and invites the recipients to respond to the email with any feedback.

Evaluation

At six months and twelve months post implementation, we will review the pre-implementation data regarding staff turnover rates, compare staff satisfaction results from staff surveys, and review feedback from recipients.