Clinical Nurse Specialists address the unique needs of pediatric and perinatal patient populations during COVID-19.
Topic of Interest
Role of CNS in COVID-19 Pandemic
Patient Populations
Capture Value of the CNS
Interprofessional Collaboration
Abstract
Title: Clinical Nurse Specialists address the unique needs of pediatric and perinatal patient populations during COVID-19.
Significance and Background: Armed with the preparation and training unique to a Clinical Nurse Specialist, rapid change was needed throughout all three spheres of influence (patient, nursing, and organization) to meet the unique challenges presented during a pandemic within the Pediatric and Women’s Service Lines. This work included but was not limited to development of population specific crisis care standards, nursing care guidelines for COVID positive patients, visitor policy development unique to each patient population (since the “no visitor” policy for adult Med-Surg patients did not apply to children and laboring mothers), and code blue modifications to protect teammates and prevent spread of COVID during this pandemic.
Evaluation Methods: The existence of an integrative CNS team across the system, with specific focus on individual service lines, allowed for quick identification and response to immediate needs the pandemic presented.
Outcomes: A streamlined approval process positioned the CNS as the subject matter expert, leading system work and collaborating directly with senior leadership to implement rapid change. This enhanced teamwork and collaboration amongst diverse professional roles within the system lead to both standardized and population specific strategies and practice changes.
Implications: The diversity and adaptability of the CNS further highlights the value and need of the CNS role in a complex hospital system. The CNS team worked cohesively and responded to the abrupt shift in purpose to meet the diverse needs of the specific patient populations they served during COVID-19. The influence of the CNS to drive change reaches beyond the needs of a pandemic and is a valuable asset to optimze care within a multi-hospital healthcare system.