Application and Integration of AACN Synergy Care Model in Clinical Practice

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Table of Contents

Abstract3

Introduction4

Application and integration of AACN Synergy Care Model in clinical practice5

Focus of the model5

Explanation of the model6

Use of the nursing synergy model8

Application of the model in a research study9

Applying the nursing synergy model to theory-based practice10

Use of the model for prioritizing patient care and for integration with leadership11

Conclusion12

References13

Application and Integration of AACN Synergy Care Model in Clinical Practice

Abstract

The AACN synergy care model prescribes the patient characteristics and the identified nursing competencies which must be matched to achieve superior patient outcomes that are optimum level. In this way, the model is used as a framework in the education of various nurses in the critical care category. In addition, the model is very effective and is in wide use by the practicing nurses. The model has also been researched for its effectiveness while it has also been applied to other nursing interventions such as those for spirituality. Finally, the model goes well with the quality and safety competencies of QSEN while it can also be integrated with various nursing leadership theories for achieving the best patient outcomes.

Introduction

The AACN Synergy Care Model was developed in 1994 when the AACN NTI (Nursing Training Institute) first prescribed a model for nursing care which linked the nursing practice with the patient outcomes. This initial model of nursing care proposed 13 characteristics of patients including the critically ill patients and 9 characteristics of nurses. The patient characteristics included those ranging from margin of error compensation to resiliency to resource availability (Hardin and Kaplow, 2004). On the other hand, the identified characteristics of the nurse included those ranging from engagement to skilled clinical experiential learning (Hardin and Kaplow, 2004). This synergy from having ascertained the patient needs and nurses' characteristics resulted in the optimum results for the patient.

However, this model soon become outdated as in 1995, a new model was commissioned and proposed by the AACN (the American Association for Critical-Care Nurses). This model was the final model and included redefined patient characteristics and nurse competencies. Previously, the nurses were recruited based on the number of hours of duty, on the number and types of task performed, and on the basis of an examination regarding body systems. The model was resisted by the nurses who questioned its use in nursing practice. However, it was elucidated that the implementation of the new model was necessary as the nurses' role was very important for the treatment of critically ill patients, no matter where they were treated.

The development of this model was based on the assumption that there was a critical relationship between the patients and the nurses. In this way, there was a dire need to link the patient outcomes with the treatment provided by the nurses. It was only possible to provide superior nursing care when the patient characteristics were considered, in order to identify and meet the various patient needs.

Accordingly the AACN commissioned the development of a refined nursing care model which ...