Midland Memorial CNO discusses practice redesign

Midland Memorial in Texas started a licensed practical nurse internship, residency and fellowship program to encourage LVNs to become registered nurses. The hospital redesigned some of its models to permit unlicensed assistive personnel to supplement care, enabling registered nurses to practice to the top of their licenses. Midland Memorial has lowered its hiring age to 16 for unlicensed assistive personnel to expose high school students to health careers. Once hired, these students are eligible for tuition assistance to become registered nurses. CNO and AONL member Kit Bredimus, DNP, RN, believes the key to successful practice redesign is strong communication and involving staff to get buy-in, as well as empowering front-line nurses to make changes. Leaders should tailor practice redesign to each organization’s unique needs. (HealthLeaders Media article, 7/17/23)