Adding LPNs to team-based care model improves efficiency

UPMC Health System’s med-surg specialty units adopted a team-based care model to deliver high-quality patient care with greater efficiency, detailed in an article in the May issue of Voice of Nursing Leadership. The Pittsburgh-based medical system introduced the model to enable nurses, nursing assistants and patient care technicians to work at the top of their skill set and licensure and spend more time caring for patients. UPMC added licensed practical nurses to the team and created a patient and family concierge role to take over nonclinical tasks, such as ordering meals and stocking supplies. The changes enabled patients to see their care team more frequently, improving patient satisfaction and outcomes.