Formative evaluation: implementation of primary nursing.

Abstract

Staff nurses initiated the change from a total patient care to a primary nursing delivery system. The effects of the change were measured on the following: nurses' perceptions of their work environment; communication and collaboration with other health care professionals; parent satisfaction and quality of care provided, and direct and indirect nursing activities. The measurements were taken prior to, six months and twelve months post implementation. Action was taken based on the findings of this evaluation process which enabled the facilitation of the change process.