Development of the West Michigan Regional Perinatal Nurse Network
- Describe specific regional programs implemented by the West Michigan Regional Perinatal Nurse Network
- Demonstrate the benefits of collaboration and partnerships when developing programs in individual institutions through out the region
- Recommend specific tactics for evaluating and implementing regional resource sharing
Proposed change: In 2001, the Institute of Medicine report highlighted the need for health care collaboration across disciplines and agencies. The trend of increasingly complex patients and decreasing resources presents a challenge for perinatal nurses to meet the diverse needs of their communities. This is particularly true for rural and subspecialty hospitals who may have limited resources. This presentation will highlight the benefits and the rationale for developing the West Michigan Regional Perinatal Nurse Network (WMRPNN).
Implementation, outcomes and evaluation: Collaboration and partnerships provide a proficient process for developing programs and sharing of intellectual property among geographically contiguous hospitals. Members meet quarterly to discuss current issues, ideas, and gain valuable education. Members network with each other, identifying ways to enhance nursing practice thereby improving the health and well-being of neonates, families, and respective communities. As future communication technologies are developed, WMRPNN plans to evaluate and implement necessary changes while maintaining the spirit of face to face interactions.
Implications for nursing practice: The WMRPNN provides an environment for consultation, continuing education and outreach. When information gained from these meetings is implemented in the respective individual institutions, the community benefits from the collaboration by having parents who are better equipped to care for their newborns.
Keywords: Collaboration, Partnerships
