The Benefit of TEAM Nursing

Often times when I meet a new patient in our office, I am asked “Will you be my nurse?” My answer to that is “Yes.. And so will Beth, Amy, Erin, Jana, Nichol, Stephanie, and Latoya." Some clinics use a primary nurse system, where essentially the patients are given one nurse who does everything for that patient. This type of system has its benefits, and its limitations. One the plus side, a patient can call the office and ask to speak with a specific person for whatever they need. The downside to this is that if your nurse is off for the day, on vacation or with another patient, you end up speaking to someone who you are not as familiar with.

The team works collaboratively with shared responsibility‍

In our office, we utilize a team nursing concept, which we find to be more effective. The team works collaboratively with shared responsibility. Emphasis is placed on communication and delegation that enhances team performance.

Here’s how Team Nursing works: As a new patient coming into the office, you will receive all of your initial testing instructions from a nurse who will have you call when you are ready to begin the testing process. When that time comes, you call the office and leave a message for our phone nurse – this is typically Amy, but of course we all pitch in and help her return calls. So, you may receive instructions from any one of the members of the nursing staff. We are meticulous about communicating with one another in patient charting, and we are all well versed in explaining what comes next. Once you are in the office, you will see one of several nursing members for your exams, and of course another review of where you are and what your next steps are.

We are all able to help you during your treatment cycle – you have a ton of support.‍

So, why do we like this system so much? We are all able to help you during your treatment cycle – you have a ton of support. You can reach out to any one of us, and we will ALL get to know you, your history and your plans. When you come into the office, you are seeing the nurses you have spoken to on the phone, or emailed with. It creates an additional level of comfort and support for your visits. Additionally, you don't have to worry that ‘your’ nurse won’t be available for you – we are ALL here for you to help with anything you may need during your journey!

So, next time you call, or come in – get to know us! We are a friendly, outgoing and compassionate TEAM of nurses, ready and willing to guide you!