Stacey Brull studied developing, sustaining, and measuring shared governance at the University of Maryland School of Nursing as part of her DNP program.

Brull S. (2012). Developing, Sustaining, and Measuring Shared Governance. Independent Study, DNP Program. University of Maryland School of Nursing.

Abstract

This study examined the degree to which nurses practiced shared governance (SG) before and after implementing a strategic SG program. Evidence demonstrates that SG plays an important role in creating a healthy work environment. However, many leaders assume they have SG in place without empirical evidence to support this claim. To address this gap, a descriptive quasi-experimental study measured the degree of shared governance over a 3-year period. Concurrently, the organization put structures and processes in place to strengthen and elevate SG. Results indicated a significant change from traditional governance to shared governance over three years, as well as significant differences depending on the age and degree of the nurse responding. Overall, creating a SG environment takes a long time. Appropriate structures, processes, and education, along with empirical evidence, must be in place for it to succeed.

Questions? Contact the author, Stacey Brull.