news views Winter 2014
A Publication of the Department of Nursing and Patient Care Services University of Maryland Medical Center
The Interventional Radiology Department First Annual “Unity Day:" Building a Stronger Team Melisha Spahr, RN, CCRN, SCNI, Interventional Radiology
On November 2, 2013, the Interventional Radiology Department staff came together for their first annual team bonding event known as “Unity Day." Due to the vast amount of change made in the Interventional Radiology Department, it was identified by leadership and staff that a much needed boost in morale and relationship building was needed. Although not mandatory, a large percentage of staff dedicated their personal time to participate in this amazing event. Forty highly motivated participants, including physicians, nurses, radiology technologists, and ancillary support staff, came together to solidify a stronger bond with their fellow team members. This fun filled day began with a well-organized light breakfast followed by three hours of exhilarating outdoor team-building activities. These activities focused on fostering collaboration and communication between team members. The day ended with individual team prizes and a catered lunch. The goal of “Unity Day” was to assist the team in creating a work culture that values communication and teamwork by building positive relationships. A productive team builds a collegial environment that fosters meaningful and positive communication, problem solving methods, trust building, and coping strategies amongst team members.
Members of the planning team: Patty Wall, BSN, RN, CCRN; Melisha Spahr, RN, CCRN, SCNI; and Dominique Feldman, BSN, RN, CCRN, SCNl
This team-building event has already proven to be successful, as evidenced by the interactions between the staff and the patients and families receiving care in the department. Staff members are faced with many challenges daily and are able to overcome many obstacles by utilizing the skills learned at this event. Effective communication and building trust allows the staff to work together in unison to promote positive patient outcomes. The Interventional Radiology Team has strong leaders that are committed to creating a positive work environment to promote the success of the organization. A special thanks goes out to the planning team including Fred M. Moeslein, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Radiology, Interim Director, Vascular and Interventional Radiology; Patty Wall, BSN, RN, CCRN, Nurse/Operations Manager for Radiology and PICC Team; Melisha Spahr, RN, CCRN, SCNI, Interventional Radiology; and, Dominique Feldman, BSN, RN, CCRN, SCNI, Interventional Radiology. The planning team was instrumental in making this event a success, and they provided a great example of physicians and nurses going above and beyond for the good of the team and the organization. Due to the success of this event, the Interventional Radiology Department plans to hold an annual “Unity Day” event to maintain a positive work environment for the promotion of employee satisfaction and excellent patient outcomes.