Empirical outcomes
Empirical Outcomes validate the difference nurses make and confirm our commitment to our mission. Using data to measure change is key to our culture of nursing excellence.
In 2024, our nurses demonstrated the value of empirical outcomes by tracking data to improve patient safety. A sampling of our results:
- A new buddy system reduced peripheral IV infiltrations and extravasations (PIVIEs) by 28% within a year
- An increase in nurse engagement scores
- Sepsis huddle participation increased by 53%
Nurse-led initiative reduces IV complications
A nurse-led initiative significantly reduced peripheral IV infiltrations and extravasations (PIVIEs) by 28% within a year. The PIVIE Buddy System, introduced organization-wide in 2024, pairs nurses to perform midpoint buddy checks on patient IVs during each shift.
The Buddy System addresses inherent human bias that can desensitize nurses to subtle changes in patient assessments. By involving a second nurse with a fresh perspective, the initiative improves IV monitoring and early detection of complications.
The pilot, conducted on the renal and gastrointestinal acute care units on the Dallas campus and general pediatric and surgical acute care units on the Plano campus, concluded successfully in August 2023. Following positive results, nursing leaders introduced the system across all units in 2024. Discussions during True North Huddles, daily meetings to align unit goals, helped ensure a smooth adoption.
The program highlights how innovative, nurse-driven solutions can bring about measurable improvements in patient safety and quality care.
Nurse survey scores outperform benchmark for all Magnet index questions
Through 2024, we continued to increase initiatives to engage nurses, leading to an outperformance on all Magnet index questions about nurse engagement. We actively involved nurses across the organization in opportunities for professional growth and recognition, including nursing professional governance, meaningful recognition opportunities, nursing culture day and leadership conferences. The implementation of our acuity-based staffing model, increased certification support and support for enhancing patient safety demonstrated our commitment to nurses.
**download the 2024 Nurse Annual Report to view more
Empowered as Quality Champions, nurses improve patient outcomes
A quality-improvement initiative empowered frontline staff to become Quality Champions, driving meaningful improvements in patient care. Leaders selected clinical nurses with strong clinical expertise and leadership potential, equipping them to address critical gaps in sepsis screening and timely first-dose antibiotics – two key areas essential for better patient outcomes.
Their efforts led to a 700% increase in sepsis screenings in just three months, ensuring early detection and treatment. Compliance with sepsis huddle participation increased by 53%, and the time required to administer first-dose antibiotics dropped by 40 minutes to 31 minutes.
Beyond clinical improvements, the initiative strengthened teamwork, accountability and staff morale. Nurses felt more engaged, valued and empowered to drive change.
**download the 2024 Nurse Annual Report to view more