The Joint Nursing Advisory Process
Rooted in a foundation of transparency, accountability, respect and open communication, the Joint Nursing Advisory Committee (NAC) process is designed to take a proactive and collaborative approach to concerns regarding patient safety and safe nursing practice.
Through the Joint NAC process, the parties focus on setting goals and parameters to keep the NAC process moving forward in a timely, positive and productive manner. A key tool for success built into the process is the ability for registered nurses and nursing managers to engage in low-level resolution and two-way communication to resolve issues in real-time based on the needs and acuity levels of the patients.
Click here to access the WSR to report a professional practice concern
Click here to view the Algorithm Chart for Joint NAC Process
Low-Level Resolution – What Is It & When Do We Use It?
Low-level resolution is an approach that registered nurses take to address immediate issues daily through work reassignment or unit-level huddles. The Joint NAC Process now formalizes this approach as part of the process to establish a tangible, effective and solutions-based process to resolving issues in real time.
Professional Practice or Workload?
There is great deal of overlap between the two categories, as increased workload directly affects a nurse’s ability to meet their professional responsibilities and puts their ability to provide safe patient care at risk.
Professional practice issues occur when a registered nurse is unable to uphold their professional standards, competencies or code of ethics, meet an employer policy/procedure/work standard, or adhere to OH&S legislation.
Workload issues can stem from several factors including:
- Were there too many patients for the staff on shift?
- Was baseline staffing not met or appropriate for the clients being cared for?
- What was the acuity and complexity of clients? Etc.
