Patient experience is an essential aspect of measuring quality care. To enhance this part of care delivery at the Sacramento Medical Center, Esperanza Chavez, MSA, BSN, RN, Chief Nurse Executive led the implementation of interdisciplinary daily leader rounding—an initiative designed to build meaningful connections among leaders, patients, families, and staff.
Leaders from nursing, ancillary services, and administrative departments conducted daily patient visits to engage with patients, families, and frontline staff. A rounding debrief follows, enabling leaders to escalate concerns, implement quick solutions, celebrate successes, and address barriers, such as service delays or communication gaps. This process also promotes accountability, real-time problem-solving, and a culture of meaningful actions.
“We are receiving feedback from patients that they feel heard and valued, with many highlighting exceptional staff efforts,” Keith Weaver, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, Area Care Experience Leader, noted, “This process also gives us a chance to hear directly from patients not only about their concerns for service improvement but also the incredible work of our staff—they deserve the recognition.”
Reflecting on the program’s impact, Chief Nurse Chavez emphasized, “Interdisciplinary rounding isn’t about checking in—it’s about showing up, breaking down barriers, and celebrating the extraordinary people behind our care. It is also about engaging all leaders whose work may not be in direct patient care, but making things happen for clinicians to do their work effectively. Over time, this initiative will help us drive improvements in the patient experience, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, and enrich the hospital’s mission to provide high-quality care.”