Far West Division executive leaders shadowed nursing and colleagues to learn to better support care teams

The first step in implementing effective operational change is listening to those it will impact most. Seeking out the voices of those closest to our patients is what sets up HCA Healthcare for successful change management and progress.

On Wednesday, September 25, over 40 HCA Healthcare Far West Division executives and senior leaders throughout our hospitals in Nevada and California spent time with frontline nurses and ancillary colleagues through the shadowing experience Walk in Your World. The annual event was developed to provide authentic insight into some of the challenges colleagues face when providing patient care. By shadowing staff, leaders can better understand the impact of their roles and identify opportunities for improvement in patient care and operational efficiency. Walk in Your World fosters collaboration, empathy and a deeper sense of teamwork, ultimately enhancing our shared commitment to providing the highest level of care. This initiative is just one of the ways we are working to build a more connected and supportive work environment across the Far West Division.

Participating colleagues ranged from medical surgical nurses to emergency and critical care teams along with respiratory therapists, transporters, kitchen staff and physician therapy. Far West Division chief medical officer, Dr. Jeff Murawsky, walked with Lindsey, a registered nurse at Riverside Community Hospital in Riverside, California. Lindsey and Dr. Murawsky discharged two patients, administered medications and helped a patient put on his life vest. The pair also educated patients on medication compliance with coronary artery disease.

Division chief executive officer, Jackie Van Blaricum, shadowed Dale, a night shift emergency department nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in San Jose, California. “What stood out to me the most about Dale was his passion and attention to not only clinical excellence but also the patient’s experience,” said Jackie. “Dale and I discussed the challenges the emergency department faces and offered real-time suggestions for throughput and improvement.”  

Although Walk in Your World in a one-day event, the action does not end with the walk. One of the most important parts of Walk in Your World takes place after the shadowing and the executive leaders share what they learned with hospital senior teams and department leads. From sharing these observations and feedback, real action can take place to improve both the patient and colleague experience.

“I am personally always proud of our team members in Nevada and California; but having the chance to see their performance and passion up close and in person is a welcomed reminder of our ‘why,’” said Jackie. “I feel grounded in our mission and my cup is full.”