2024 Nursing Annual Report

Planning for the Future

Moving on up: 12th Floor Integration Preparation

THE TRANSITION COMMITTEES

In response to the growing and evolving healthcare needs of children across Alabama, the Special Care Unit (SCU) and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) are merging into one unified, comprehensive, intensive care unit that will be located on the 12th floor of the Benjamin Russell building. This strategic integration reflects a shared commitment to enhancing pediatric care, improving operational efficiency, and expanding access to high quality critical services for the most vulnerable patients. The new combined unit will offer 50 flex beds capable of scaling to meet varying levels of acuity, allowing us to deliver care that is both specialized and adaptable. To ensure a successful merger between SCU and PICU, five key committees have been established. These interdisciplinary teams will focus on critical areas that support staff alignment, operational efficiency, and cultural integration. In addition, all staff members will participate in development sessions, led by Human Resources Organizational Development Department, focused on communication, change management, and cultural integration. This merger presents an opportunity to unify expertise, resources, and values. By organizing around these five strategic committees and committing to continuous staff development, the SCU and PICU will be well positioned to form a strong, cohesive, and collaborative care environment that benefits both patients and staff.

ORIENTATION COMMITTEE: The Orientation Committee is a driving force behind the integration of cross-training and education as we merge our two units. SOCIALIZATION COMMITTEE: The Socialization Committee will play a vital role in fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie as our units combine. WORKFLOW COMMITTEE: The Workflow Committee is tasked with navigating the complexities of merging teams, strategically assessing leadership workflows and assignments to ensure a cohesive and efficient integration. SUPPORT STAFF COMMITTEE: The Support Staff Committee will assist with training development and streamline workflows and processes for our combined support staff teams. SUPPLY/EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE: The Supply Committee will facilitate merging supplies and equipment from two units into one cohesive system. Its primary responsibility is to organize and determine the optimal locations for all supplies in the unit and patient room care areas in a practical and efficient manner.