5 benefits of digital care management
A typical encounter within the healthcare system can be overwhelming and complicated, depending on the patient’s health condition. For example,…
communication
8 lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic
Clinical nurse specialists share experiences on how the pandemic and social distancing are highlighting the CNS role. The “new normal”…
A little humor please
Laughter is a way of dealing with life’s stressors. Learning how to use humor to enrich our personal and professional…
A new patient-acuity tool promotes equitable nurse-patient assignments
When a 2 acuity rating isn’t truly a 2
A user’s guide to cell-phone etiquette
Be a smart, savvy cell-phone user.
A word about patients’ psychic experiences: Listen
In her dream, a young pediatric nurse answered the phone at the nurses’ station and was told to go to…
Active nursing professional engagement
Find your voice and trust your instincts. Takeaways: Actively engaged nurses experience less burnout and contribute to better patient care.…
Analysis: Good communication enhances patient safety, satisfaction
A new report from HealthGrades finds that hospitals with the highest patient ratings in physician and nursing communications on average…
Be a coach for novice nurses
The transition from the educational setting to the practice setting can be intimidating. Make it easier by guiding novice nurses.
Beasts, gods and FaceTime: The anguish of visitor limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic
For the foreseeable future, efforts to minimize human contact will remain in place as part of the response to the…
Beasts, gods and FaceTime: The anguish of visitor limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic
For the foreseeable future, efforts to minimize human contact will remain in place as part of the response to the…
Being the nurse in the family
Define your role when a family member is ill, and then apply that experience in your practice. Takeaways: Most nurses…
Beyond a box of chocolates
Often, patients and families express their gratitude for a special nurse’s outstanding care with spoken thanks or heartfelt commendations written…
Beyond a box of chocolates
Often, patients and families express their gratitude for a special nurse’s outstanding care with spoken thanks or heartfelt commendations written…
Beyond customer service
Many nurses don’t like to hear their patients called “customers” or be told to provide “customer service.” This expert explains how to lose the lingo and adapt the principles of customer service to patient care.
Breathe new life into unit staff meetings
Revive humdrum unit meetings by setting compelling themes and having staff members present agenda items.
Building a sense of community on nursing units
Jeff Rawson, a new nurse graduate, works on a behavioral health unit. His manager believes his transition is going well—until…
Building Your Communication Skills
In her Harvard University Division of Continuing Education Professional Development website blog, Marjorie Lee North, a consultant for political candidates,…
Building Your Communication Skills – Part 2
The second installment of Marjorie Lee North’s Harvard University Division of Continuing Education Professional Development website blog, focuses on putting…
Building Your Communication Skills Part 3
Marjorie Lee North, a consultant for political candidates, physicians, and lawyers, presented these ten tips in her blog on the…
Bullies in health care beware
Bullies in health care beware.
Care, not chaos
A new document created by ANA and other groups delineates emergency care principles for psychiatric patients.
Carefronting: An innovative approach to managing conflict
Nick Chase is an emergency department (ED) charge nurse. He and Michelle Stanley have worked together for the past 3…
Carrots and sticks
The Stick—penalties for excess readmissions Is your hospital on the list? Starting this month, over 2,200 hospitals are forfeiting up…
Choosing the right conversation
It’s 7:10 A.M. Maggie, the night-shift charge nurse, is waiting to give report to Julie, the charge nurse on the…
Choosing the right conversation
Learn how to resolve interpersonal clashes by choosing the right type of conversation at the right time.
Civility starts with you
Over the last decade, civility has become a hot topic. I got involved with it in 2000, when more than…
Clinical nurse leaders and clinical nurse specialists: harmonious partners
Collaboration between these two valuable resources depends on understanding how their roles differ.
Coaching Communication: Tips for nurse managers
One key element of performance management is coaching staff to improve behavior. In this section on coaching communication, I will share ideas for how you as a manager can coach employees via your day-to-day conversations.
Collaboration brings an innovative approach to nursing education
Working with local hospitals, a Texas consortium of nursing schools developed learning modules to improve new nurse graduates’ preparation for practice.
Communicating with intubated patients: A new approach
Learn how one hospital improved communication between nurses and intubated patients through the use of an algorithm,
new communication devices, and a focused communications course for nurses.
Communication for coordination
Key takeways – Communication across the continuum of care is more than “just read my notes.” – Consistent communication is…
Compassion holds everything together
Despite our physical separation from each other, we’re still all connected and react to what happens to each other. Compassion is the unifying force that holds it all together.
Compassionate Connections
Improve outcomes, promote trust, and keep patients safe. Takeaways: Creating meaningful, compassionate connections with patients can improve outcomes, promote trust,…
Confronting conflict with higher-ups
Conflict in the workplace is a fact of life, and dealing with it is never easy. Sometimes it seems easier…
Consistent, quality communication
Nurses help lead efforts on safe patient handoffs and transfers Note: This is the first of two articles in a…
Create better communications
Communicating assertively is a learned skill. Use the “look, think, and act” model to evaluate and improve your communication skills.
Creating a self-sustaining professional culture of quality
To earn Magnet redesignation, a hospital must be able to sustain a professional culture of quality. A nurse leader at one hospital describes how her nursing staff has done just that.
Creating high-performance interprofessional teams
Kate Summer, a nurse case manager on a telemetry unit, is leading an initiative to reduce the 30-day readmission rate…
Dealing with difficult people
Jackie Jacobs is a charge nurse in a busy intensive care unit. She prides herself on being able to get…
Distance education offers a wealth of formats and options
An increasing number of students are choosing distance
education, over traditional courses.
Do you know which vaccines are recommended for special populations?
Pregnant and postpartum women, immunocompromised
children, and persons at high risk for flu-related complications have special immunization needs. Part of ANA’s Bringing
Immunity to Every Community campaign, this handout
explains how to help ensure that these vulnerable populations are protected.
Do you remember when?
It’s time for new nursing graduates to join your work environment. Will you be a supportive colleague of their entry…
Documenting dilemmas via email
Use this simple acronym to get results. Takeaways: When faced with a workplace dilemma, communication is key to achieving resolution.…
Does your workplace culture need CPR?
If you suspect your workplace culture is “ill,” assessment is a crucial first step. Using an established assessment tool can help ensure more thorough data collection.
Effective peer reviews in 3 easy steps
Most well-respected journals are peer reviewed, although controversy exists as to its true value. The International Committee of Medical Journal…
Environement, health, and safety
Bullying is an abusive behavior that threatens the safety of healthcare workers. Nurses should examine their own interactions to see if they are exhibiting this undesirable behavior.
Family presence during resuscitation: Who decides?
Effective communication enables nurses and physicians to negotiate a collaborative decision that honors the family’s wishes.
Fighting the war on dogma
Want do away with outdated dogma in your workplace? Learn how to present an effective case for changing the current thinking.
Forgive us our trespasses
When Archbishop Desmond Tutu, chairman of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee, speaks of Nelson Mandela, he insists Mandela has always been a free man because he was free from any need or desire for revenge.
Fostering nurse-physician collaboration through shared experience
An innovative program fosters appreciation for nurses. Takeaways: Medical residents participating in a Nurse-for-a-Day program reported that the top lessons…
From expert RN to novice clinical instructor: Tips for success
Organize, communicate, and document for a successful clinical nursing instructor experience. Takeaways: The transition from expert clinician to novice clinical…
From our readers: Do we really know who our patients are?
Both nurse leaders and educators need to teach and model not only day-to-day nursing skills but the importance of connecting…
From our readers: The art of self-disclosure
One aspect of the “art” of nursing is appropriate self-disclosure. Nurses and other healthcare providers often have an opportunity to…
From our readers: Using theater improvisational games to enhance interpersonal skills in nurses
Learn how to "play the game" to help nurses and students build skills.
From our readers…How my bad experiences with call lights formed my nursing practice
I have been a critical care nurse since 2008. In our unit, patients have call lights, and of course, patients…
From our readers…Mentoring the community: Sharing secrets with rival hospitals
If you are involved in a project or program that is truly awesome, why not share it with other nursing…
From our readers…Strengthening nursing networks
Have you ever wondered what happened to the student who studied with you for that beginning med-surg test or the…
From our readers…Talking to patients about a “weighty” issue: Are you ready?
As the prevalence of obesity in the United States continues to rise, no doubt more of your patients are having…
From our readers…What bedside nurses can teach nursing leaders
Five years ago, while working in leadership I had a pivotal conversation with my superior regarding the need to “stop…
Get Smart: Increase your emotional intelligence
You have the power to be happy and successful.
Have we lost our ability (and our sensitivity) to communicate in healthcare?
Read Donna Cardillo’s October blog here.
How do you improve pharmacist and nurse communication?
By Julie Cullen, Managing Editor, American Nurse Today I thought the best way to answer that question would be to…
How electronic health records are improving health care for elderly patients
Innovative information technology tools help ensure patients get the right care at the right time.
How to deliver bad news
Healthcare providers often must give bad news to patients and families. Doing this in a direct, concise, compassionate way is a skill that equired practice.
How to disagree with the head nurse and keep your job
You can disagree with your boss, but learn to do so wisely. Read more…
How to fit in fast at your new job
If you’re looking for a new position in nursing, you have lots of company. According to a CareerBuilder.com survey, 32%…
How to increase developmental opportunities for frontline nurse leaders
Over the decades, the role of the frontline nurse manager has evolved from head nurse to nurse leader. With this…
How to keep your communications professional
Whether you communicate in person, on the phone, or via voice mail, e-mail, or text message, be sure to use proper etiquette.
How to motivate your staff
Use these tips to help your team succeed.
Improved surgical communication reduces communication breakdowns
An intervention to improve surgical communication led to “significant reductions in potentially harmful communication breakdowns” according to May’s Annals of…
Improving clinician-patient communication
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recently released a discussion paper that offers principles on effective communication to guide nurses, physicians,…
Improving palliative care and communication in the ICU
Looking for more information on evidence-based practices? Read this first article in a series from the National Institute of Nursing Research.
Interacting with individuals on the autism spectrum
Successful care depends on communication with patients, families, and caregivers. Takeaways: Optimizing health encounters for patients on the autism spectrum…
Introverts can be nurse leaders, too
Natalie Sanchez recently was promoted to a nurse manager position. So far, she thinks, things are going well. She is…
Issues up close
Family nurse practitioner (FNP) and nurse-midwife Karen Holder, FNP-BC, CNM, MHS, sees patients at a large primary care clinic in Flagstaff, Arizona, as well as at small satellite units in remote communities sprinkled around northern Arizona.
It’s all in the translation
Read about a valuable health-education resource for foreign-language patients.
Learn more about how to prevent violence in the workplace
New multi-media training resource helps prevent workplace violence
Let there be peace
A special holiday message from our editor-in-chief.
Linguistics in healthcare: Why it matters
MK Hedrick is a former colleague of mine who works in healthcare market research. When we worked together, we were…
Making the workplace healthier, one self-aware nurse at a time
From the disruptive physician throwing instruments or treating nurses with contempt to coworkers or nurse managers “eating their young,” some…
Meaningful Recognition: Make it happen!
We all want respect. Here’s how to go about getting it.
Medical-surgical value analysis aims high above the bottom line
Standardization of medical-surgical products across hospitals and health systems can have significant benefits in cost savings, employee satisfaction, and the…
Mindful speaking
As nurses we deliver crucial care to patients. We help to support families in times of distress, welcome new life…
Navigating organizational politics
Editor’s note: At American Nurse Today, we believe every nurse can be a leader. This article is the first in…
Nine principles of successful nursing leadership
There is an extraordinary quality of spirit that prompts one to aspire to lead. These nine principles will help you…
Nurse practitioners should be eligible to serve as “medical homes” for primary care
Nurse practitioners should be eligible to serve as “medical homes” for primary care By Eileen Shannon Carlson, JD, RN Congress…
Nurses’ essential role in supporting professionalism
Key takeaways – Most nurses behave professionally and ethically. – A tiered approach to intervention when unprofessional behavior occurs offers…
Of artichokes and angry patients
How is an artichoke like an angry patient? What can you do to diffuse anger.
One-on-one meetings: The stitch in time that saves nine
Remember the last time you had a loose button? Maybe you thought about stopping to sew it on, but never…
Our future through my review mirror
Turn the troubling events of 2020 into opportunities in 2021. 2020 is finally over! It was a meaningful year because…
Patient/family/visitor “hot line” prevents medical errors
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has a “hot line” that patients, families, or visitors can call if they see…
Practice guidelines, standards, consensus statements, position papers: What they are, how they differ
Healthcare agencies and societies frequently issue practice guidelines, standards, and various statements and papers on clinical topics. This article explains how to evaluate these documents and describes the best uses for each type.
Presenting yourself professionally
What do your first 12 words, your first 12 steps, and your top and bottom 12″ say about you? Find out how the “rule of 12” can help you make a good first impression.
Professional social networking for nurses
WHEN MY GRANDPARENTS were children, they communicated in person or by letter. In my parents’ generation, the telephone became popular.…
Professionals, pyramids, and Peter Pan
If only it were this simple: Nurses get 8 hours of sleep every night, perfect work schedules are in place with…
Protecting yourself from malpractice claims
As nursing practice becomes more autonomous, nurses are becoming more vulnerable to lawsuits. Learn how to avoid being sued for malpractice and what to do if you are sued.
Providing effective communication to patients who are deaf or hard of hearing
Nurses have a legal duty. Communication is the bedrock of patient care. If a patient can’t comprehend the care being…
Puzzling over family presence: Word search at the bedside
The patient’s family makes an initial judgment about a nurse within 60 seconds—so your first words are crucial. Find out how to make every second count.
Quantifying the benefits of staff participation in shared governance
Organizations can save money and avoid costs by involving
staff in the work of shared governance.
Quantum nursing III: Connecting on the same wavelength
Dr. Curtin explains why nurses should consciously “connect” with patients
and describes the neural mechanisms that make this possible.
Quantum relationships: Time is not of the essence
You will forever and always be physically and consciously entangled with each of your patients.
Remedying role confusion: Differentiating RN and LPN roles
When the lines between RN’s and LPN’s practice roles got blurry, nurses initiated a comprehensive process to clearly define and demarcate these roles.
Research consent forms still too complex
A study of 124 consent forms used in HIV network trials sponsored by the National Institutes of Health found that…
Ride to the top with a good elevator speech
Make sure to have a brief speech prepared for that chance encounter with someone you’ve been hoping to meet.
Safeguarding patients: The courageous communication solution
Preventable medical errors account for 440,000 deaths each year and are the third leading cause of death in the United States. According…
Self-mutilation: The cutting truth
People who mutilate themselves excel at hiding their injuries. Find out how to identify self-mutilators and nurture their trust.
Seven steps for having difficult conversations
This simple guide can facilitate interactions. Takeaways: Be open minded when having a difficult conversation. Practice self-reflection to prepare for…
Snakes at the nursing station
It’s not easy, but confrontation is your best response to a backstabbing coworker who specializes in sabotage or an overbearing bully with an itch for intimidation.
Social media: New communication platform, but old rules still apply
Stop and think before you post. Takeaways: · Social media is a powerful double-edged sword capable of providing access to…
Soul habits
Use your mind and body to support your soul. Takeaways: Your outer circumstances don’t need to control your happiness, even…
Springing into action: How one procedural area kept working during COVID-19
As COVID-19 hit Georgia in early March 2020, Emory University System made the difficult decision to stop all surgeries and…
Squashing the communication triangle
In the infamous and deadly Bermuda Triangle, things seem to disappear, never to be seen again. In the communication triangle,…
Stop, look and listen to your patients and their families
Providing family-centered care means listening to, engaging, and collaborating with patients and their families.
Strategies for effective patient communication
Communication is an exchange of information between two persons—a sender and a receiver. But it doesn’t end there. Feedback is…
Sustaining a shared governance organization
Learn about the tools and mechanisms that foster an autonomous nursing staff.
Talent-management strategies: Bridging the multigenerational gap in nursing
In today’s dynamic nursing environment, we are seeing four generations, creating a remarkable “cross-pollination” of RNs from across the Traditionalist…
The ethical will: A loving legacy
An ethical will serves as a vehicle for distilling a lifetime of wisdom and relaying messages of hope and love.
The importance of being unreasonable
Nurses, on the whole, are a darn nice group of people. After all, nurses have a reputation for being caring,…
The many merits of mentoring
Have you ever felt unsure about your next career step or just needed advice from a more seasoned professional? Natalie…
The many merits of mentoring
Have you ever felt unsure about your next career step or just needed advice from a more seasoned professional? Natalie…
The quantum edge: Emotional contagion
Quantum physics suggests that if you hang around happy people, you’ll be happier.
The rewards of extern-preceptor relationships
An extern program can benefit nursing students and preceptors.
Touch of kindness
Helping a little victim of sexual assault brings a profound realization.
Transport teams and patient handoff reports
Patient safety requires complete communication. Takeaways: To protect patients, referring organizations, and transport professionals, a patient care report suitable to…
Trusting the process
By Nurse Nacole I’ve trained many new nurses, ranging in age and nursing experience, and I’ve seen some individuals have…
Understanding pain in patients with intellectual disabilities
Learn how to detect and manage pain in patients who may not respond to pain in expected ways.
Using a pyramid to address the disrespect disconnect
I’m excited to see the focus on professionalism that will be featured in this and upcoming issues of American Nurse…
Viewpoint: Disrupting and disrupted—nursing’s response to the inevitable
Disruption provides opportunity for nurses.
Viewpoint: Interprofessional collaboration and the future of health care
Transitional care expert Mary Naylor, PhD, FAAN, RN, discusses interprofessional collaboration.
Voice communications technology: healthcare provider perceptions and satisfaction
“Unnecessary noise is the most cruel abuse of care which can be inflicted on either the sick or the well.”…
What followers want in their nurse leaders
Why would anyone want you to lead them? That’s a question nurses rarely ask themselves before they take on leadership…
What to do when someone pushes your buttons
Really is it that some things don’t bother us, while other things catapult us from an emotional 0 to 60…
What works: Physician and nurse rounding improves patient satisfaction
In 2013, a provision of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (ACA) included the concept of value-based…
When does a nurse-patient relationship cross the line?
Our legal expert, LaTonia Denise Wright, BSN, RN, JD, responds to a reader’s question about professional boundaries and the legal and ethical ramifications of crossing them.
White paper suggests strategies for improving nurse-physician relationships in the ED
“Developing & Strengthening Nurse-Physician Relationships: A CEP American White Paper,” released on June 12, details a program to improve nurse-physician…
Why can’t we get along?
Read Nancy Brent,’s October blog here.
Why more nurses should write for publication (but don’t)
No matter where nurses practice or how stressful their work lives are, many use words like “delighted” and “exhilarated” to…
Your journey to authentic leadership
Our trajectory as nurse leaders frequently begins when someone notices our clinical acumen and informal leadership skills. We’re handed a set of keys to an office and asked to take on a management role. Not surprisingly, we may question if we really know how to do every part of our expanding role, from budgets to quality metrics to program implementation and management focused on outcomes.
