In their first year together, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric (Pedi) Unit Council recognized a need for more open dialogue with the staff they represented. With this goal in mind, they introduced an informal “Open Forum,” a drop-in space where anyone could stop by to share ideas or ask questions. While the intent was strong, attendance revealed that staff could benefit from more structure, clearer purpose, and opportunities for learning.

Taking this to heart, the council thoughtfully redesigned the Open Forum model. Their vision was to create a welcoming, predictable space where NICU and Pedi staff could not only make their voices heard but also engage with topics tied to the core pillars of Professional Governance, Professional Development, Quality & Safety, Care Experience, and Evidence-Based Practice.

To increase engagement, the council introduced short educational presentations at the start of each session. They began inviting guest speakers whose perspectives staff valued — Neonatologists, Pediatricians, Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, and other interprofessional partners. These brief presentations sparked meaningful conversation, deepened understanding of practice-related topics, and set the tone for dialogue during the open discussion portion.

The impact was immediate and significant. Participation in Open Forum increased by 300% following the introduction of guest speakers. Staff expressed appreciation for the focused content, the chance to interact directly with experts, and the supportive environment created by the council.

Momentum grew quickly. As more speakers expressed interest in contributing, the council soon found that every Open Forum session for the year was fully booked — with a waitlist extending into 2026.

Through thoughtful innovation and a commitment to staff voice, the NICU and Pedi Unit Council transformed the Open Forum into a cornerstone of engagement within their units — one that continues to foster collaboration and elevate patient-centered care.