Publication Date
Spring 2025
College
Gordon E. Inman College of Nursing
Department
Nursing, School of
Student Level
Undergraduate
Faculty Advisor
linda.wofford@belmont.edu; amanda.waterman@belmont.edu
Presentation Type
Article
Summary
The Mandatory Bedside Rounding in the Cardiac ICU project aims to enhance patient outcomes by implementing a standardized, nurse-led rounding protocol. Inconsistent ICU rounding practices currently contribute to miscommunication, preventable medical errors, and patient dissatisfaction. Research supports that structured bedside rounding improves interdisciplinary collaboration, care coordination, and patient safety. This proposed change involves using structured checklists, integrating documentation into the electronic health record (EHR), and training ICU staff to ensure compliance. Implementation follows a phased timeline: protocol development, staff education, pilot testing in STEMI/heart failure units, and full ICU rollout. The estimated $150,000 budget includes training, EHR updates, patient and nurse surveys, and IT support. Initial outcomes target a 10% increase in patient satisfaction and improved communication. To measure success, both patient discharge surveys and periodic nurse feedback tools will be used to gather real-time data and monitor impact. Although a reduction in length of stay (LOS) may not be immediately evident, particularly during early rollout, improved coordination and earlier discharge planning may yield measurable effects over time. Ultimately, bedside rounding empowers nurses, boosts team communication, and promotes consistent, patient-centered care, laying the foundation for long-term improvements in ICU workflow and health outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Burke, Mackenzie L., "Mandatory Bedside Rounding in the Cardiac ICU" (2025). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 445.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/445
