From Bedside Observations to Better Outcomes: How Henry Ford Health Nurses Are Driving Change

• Henry Ford Health nurses presented projects focused on improving patient care, safety and outcomes through research and evidence-based practice.

• The symposium showcased the role nursing innovation and collaboration play in advancing healthcare delivery.

DETROIT (Oct. 9) – Nurses see first-hand what helps patients heal and what puts them at risk. At Henry Ford Health, they are using that perspective to take on some of the toughest challenges in patient care: preventing patient falls, reducing workplace violence, strengthening compassionate care, and supporting nurse well-being.

Nurses from across the health system shared that work at Henry Ford Health's annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Symposium.  This year's theme, "Better Together: Shaping the Future of Nursing Scholarship," emphasized the role collaboration plays in advancing nursing practice and healthcare delivery.

"Our nurses are uniquely positioned to identify opportunities for improvement because they are closest to the patient experience," said Eric Wallis, senior vice president and system chief nurse executive at Henry Ford Health. "When nurses combine curiosity, evidence, and collaboration, they can create meaningful change that improves outcomes for patients, families and care teams across our health system."

In total, 50 poster presentations showcased how Henry Ford Health nurses are using research, quality improvement initiatives and evidence-based practice to enhance care for patients, families and care teams. The symposium drew 166 attendees representing more than 20 nursing specialties and practice areas.  

Innovation Begins at the Bedside

At Henry Ford Health, nurses are continuously conducting research, evaluating best practices and translating evidence into meaningful improvements in patient care. Nursing inquiry supports professional development, strengthens clinical practice, and helps translate research and evidence into meaningful improvements in patient care. 

"The symposium reflects the very best of nursing at Henry Ford Health," Wallis said. "It showcases our commitment to fostering innovation, supporting professional growth and empowering nurses to lead improvements that shape the future of healthcare."

That commitment was reflected in the award-winning projects recognized during this year's symposium, which highlighted excellence in nursing research, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement. 

Award-Winning Projects 

Research 

First Place: Britney Wagner 
Does Moving with Intention Help Reduce Stress & Irritability While Increasing Energy & Focus? 

Second Place: Ashley Pitts 
Compassionate Care: What Does It Mean in High-Tech Healthcare Systems? 

Evidence-Based Practice

First Place: Justin Francis 
Personality Fit and Leadership Behavior in Intensive Care Units 

Second Place: Hannah Musgrove 
Using Visual Management to Improve Compliance with CHG Bathing and Nasal Decolonization 

Quality Improvement 

First Place: Nancy Price 
A Multifaceted Approach to Prioritizing Nursing Wellness 

Second Place: Raed Fares 
Enhancing Patient Safety in Rehabilitation Through Patient-Centered Visual Fall Prevention Communication 

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