Shared Governance

Nursing Shared Governance at VCU Medical Center is where clinical nurses are empowered to make decisions and drive changes to the care environment impacting patient outcomes. Officially re-launched in July 2020, the model is composed of four Councils with a central Network. This new model schematic (see figure 1) was designed using intersecting circles, representing the connectedness and uniqueness of each council's work. Anchored by The Strategic Action Network, with membership of the existing Council Chairs, meets monthly and provides strategic direction, ensures bi-directional communication and is the final decision-making body. Key functions and membership of the four Councils are below:

Council on Clinical Inquiry and Innovation focuses on cultivating a spirit of inquiry through the continuum of evidence-based practice, research and innovations; Council membership includes clinical nurses from across the continuum of care.

Council on Quality Clinical Practice is responsible for clinical outcomes, trends in practice and standards of care; Council membership includes clinical nurses from across the continuum of care and clinical nurse representatives from divisional practice committees and champion groups.

Council on Professional Development focuses on advancement, mentorship, and transition to practice and is composed of clinical nurses, interprofessional partners and education and professional development team members.

Council on Work Environment and Standardized Systems is accountable for a healthy and safe work environment and patient experience; Council membership includes clinical nurses, interprofessional partners and select nurse leaders.