Gathering evidence of the problem was on everyone's mind. What evidence should be gathered and how would we deal with it once we gathered it? Furthermore, we all wondered how much evidence do we need to fully document the problem? We had been involved in the problem for months, where would we start with evidence gathering? We were afraid that a more formal documentation process would make more work for everyone.
Since we were committed to resolving the problem, nurses from both units agreed on the nature of evidence that would be gathered. For instance, we knew we had to gather information that would objectively illustrate the scope and depth of the problem. We needed evidence that could be used to clearly show what CRNBC Standards were not being met. This meant using our observational skills, assessment techniques, analysis and critical thinking to determine what data was relevant and worth gathering.
In addition, we also set some boundaries and agreed on a time frame for gathering the data in order to present a full, objective description of the problem. This was an approximation but it was a start.
The data we gathered included: details of the circumstances, the situation, the patient condition, number of staff working at the time, any actions taken, results of the actions, communications that took place etc. We also agreed not to make assumptions about behaviours we observed or to blame anyone for actions taken.
By demonstrating objectivity we were more likely to influence people higher up in the organization to support a resolution that would improve the situation. The problem, as we saw it, was complex involving other members of the health care team including doctors and administrators. To obtain their support and involvement, we would need to gather evidence that was reliable so that appropriate conclusions could be drawn and decisions could be made that would result in change.