The challenge

Like many other health systems, Allegheny Health Network (AHN) spent the last few years struggling to succeed in an environment where they have been largely unable to recruit a sufficient number of RNs. Solutions to fill staffing gaps —specifically, the use of high-cost travel nurses and using permanent nurses to work overtime — were unsustainable and lead to burnout. Additionally, there was clear evidence of communication breakdown amongst the interdisciplinary team relative to delineation of duties. RNs were performing their duties as well as some of the PCT2 duties, leaving them overworked and the PCTs unfulfilled. All these elements contributed to a challenging care environment.

The organization

Allegheny Health Network is a ten-hospital, integrated healthcare delivery system serving 29 Pennsylvania counties and portions of New York, Ohio, and West Virginia. AHN also serves as the clinical campus for Drexel University College of Medicine.

The approach

In response to the staffing and care role challenges, AHN launched the Blended Nursing Model of Care. Foundational to this model was the care team of the RN, LPN,3 and PCT leveraging their collective expertise to deliver high quality patient care. AHN is based in a region with a strong pipeline of LPNs currently practicing or in training, giving the organization the ability to create the model and welcome LPNs into the acute care setting. (Historically, LPNs in the region only practiced in post-acute care or ambulatory nursing.) Nursing units worked with their unit-based practice councils to customize the Blended Nursing Model to their unit’s specific needs.

The result

The Blended Nursing Model of Care has resulted in improvements in clinician wellness (including taking a meal break), engagement, and nursing sensitive quality indicators. The model has provided relief from the nursing shortage as well as financial benefits for the health system.