Integration of Nursing and AHP teams on a ward

Move from two clinical and managerial teams (Nursing and AHP) to an integrated ward team in terms of operational responsibility and provision of clinical care. This will ensure that the most appropriate staff member provides each element of patient care and will ensure a seamless management structure for all staff.
Overview of the Project
I am employed by Liverpool Community Health and work in the bed based intermediate care service. Through participation in this Fellowship I have increased my knowledge and skills in leading people and using a systems approach to manage services. Following a recent re structure I am now employed as a ward manager and I am responsible for the operational running and clinical provision of care on the ward. I am still learning about the role but have developed working relations with all staff and am passionate about encouraging staff to take their part in clinical leadership of the service. Maintaining resilience in difficult situations with regards to leading other professions. Maintaining a work life balance while working full time and engaging with the challenges of the Fellowship.

Results
Although I have been in post for a short period of time the ward staff are developing into an integrated team which is striving to provide the highest possible clinical care. They are motivated and enthusiastic about clinical leadership in order to develop the service. They have engaged in learning about what is required to provide a high quality service and actively suggest new ideas for service improvement. I am keen to put into practice more of the skills from the Fellowship with regards to systems thinking and use of MBTI as part of leadership skills to streamline the patient journey on the ward.

Leadership Challenges
Taking on a role that has been traditionally filled by nursing staff and leading staff through this change. Leading a team which has undergone extensive change in terms of location, workload and roles over the past year. Positively engaging with staff, through the use of transformational leadership skills to develop a team which I am now very proud of.

Contact Information
Karin Howorth Ward manager occupational therapist Karin.howorth@liverpoolch.nhs.uk 07866224351