Engaging and developing front-line clinical nurses to drive care excellence: Evaluating the Chief Nurse Excellence in Care Junior Fellowship initiative

Abstract

Background Global challenges in the development of a highly skilled and motivated nursing workforce jeopardise the delivery of high-quality care. Flexible and innovative workforce solutions are required to overcome these challenges. Aims To describe the implementation and present the preliminary evaluation of the ‘Chief Nurse Excellence in Care Junior' bespoke Fellowship initiative designed to develop the foundational clinical and academic skills of front-line junior clinical staff. Methods This initiative was developed and piloted at a large, inner-city, acute NHS trust. The initiative involved two main components: a bespoke development programme and an improvement project that was supported by clinical and academic mentors. The initiative was evaluated using structured feedback, case studies and data on dissemination activities. Results Six front-line nurses completed the first cohort of the initiative that commenced in spring 2016. Results showed a positive impact on professional development relating to the acquisition of new knowledge and skills. Case studies of projects had a demonstrable impact on patient experiences, outcomes and cost savings. Wider organisational and NHS impact was demonstrated through multiple dissemination activities. Conclusion This preliminary evaluation provides evidence that this initiative is a sustainable, clinically driven career development opportunity at a foundational level that has a demonstrable positive impact on care and staff development. Further work is underway to carry out a longitudinal structure, process and outcome evaluation with particular focus on impact.