A Creative Initiative: Nurses Tour Labs for a Transformative CPD Experience 🧪

On October 10th, 2024, as part of the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) clinical activities, nurses and clinicians took a creative initiative by touring the research labs. This lab tour allowed the clinical team to connect the dots between clinical sample collection and the valuable laboratory work that turns these samples into meaningful data for patient care.

Highlighting the Nurses’ Role in MLW Accreditation 🌟

The tour was followed by a presentation highlighting the nurses’ role in MLW accreditation. This experience turned out to be a valuable reminder of the incredible role nurses play in specimen collection and patient safety. Their attention to detail not only ensures top-notch patient care, even at point-of-care testing, but also boosts the quality management of our lab procedures. It’s all about teamwork: collaborating with lab personnel and keeping clear communication with patients to make sure everything runs smoothly and delivers accurate test results.

Understanding ISO Standards: A New Language 🌐

The ISO standard may feel like learning a new language. It requires practice and understanding to find meaning. Nurses were introduced to the significance of standards in a clinical setting—much like learning a new language, understanding these standards requires clarity on each role’s responsibilities and contributions. The nurses’ understanding of their role in accreditation brings meaning and value to their work. Involving nurses in the understanding of this standard enhances the quality of lab testing, increases competence and confidence, and improves collaboration and communication.

The Pre-Analytical Phase: Setting the Foundation for Accuracy 🏥

A key takeaway was the essential part nurses play in the pre-analytical phase, which sets the foundation for accurate lab results. From patient identification, sample collection, specimen transport, to examination steps, nurses play a crucial role. This interactive element emphasized the importance of involving nurses in decision-making processes and keeping them current on procedures and standards. Balancing clinical and administrative roles empowers nurses to take ownership of quality initiatives.

Seeing the Bigger Picture: Empowering Nurses 🌟

Demonstrating to nurses how their role fits into the bigger picture allows for a deeper understanding of their job and clarity in their tasks. Linda Likuwenu, one of the nurses in attendance had this to say: “This is very important. Now I understand my role and how best to contribute to ensure quality and see how to improve.” This sentiment was shared by the group, as the nurses felt important, motivated, and encouraged to work harder, understanding the cause they are working for.

Fostering Collaboration and Recognition 🤝

Gloria Mwangalika, the Assistant Clinical Manager, also commented, “This CPD tour has not only enhanced the nurses’ understanding but also fostered a stronger collaborative spirit between the clinical and lab teams, paving the way for improved patient care and quality initiatives. And I wish for the nurses to be more recognized for the work that we do.”

Building a Unified Commitment to Quality Patient Care 🏆

It’s clear that fostering collaboration and opening doors for interdepartmental training not only boosts motivation but empowers nurses to take ownership of quality initiatives. The nurses left with a deeper understanding of their role in maintaining high standards, feeling valued and equipped to advocate for patient-centered care and uphold the quality standards essential for ISO accreditation.

Moving Forward Together 🚀

As a lab team, we’ve received valuable feedback from this tour. The nurses are eager for more collaboration and recognition within our processes—bridging the clinical and laboratory roles to build a stronger, unified commitment to quality patient care. We’re excited to work together to make this vision a reality!