RESO plant operations leaders at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Washington acknowledge that burnout is a problem and impacting the caregiver experience. This team of core leaders also realized that some caregivers didn’t feel appreciated and wanted to find a way to help each member of the team feel more valued.
“Plant operations here at Kadlec is very tight. We came together to see what we could do so that our caregivers knew they were appreciated and to help address burnout,” shares Ivy Anderson, facilities supervisor.
And the leaves of gratitude took root. Using a wall near their office space, the team came together and painted a tree, adding some whimsical birds and even a squirrel. Leaf-shaped sticky notes were purchased for caregivers to add a personal thank you or an expression of appreciation.
Each caregiver within facilities, environmental services, and security has at least one leaf (if not many!) showcasing the value they bring to the team. The leaves of gratitude serve another purpose – allowing the caregivers to see leadership taking the time to demonstrate their appreciation.
This project has already created inspiration for others. Another department at Kadlec witnessed the value this project provided to the caregivers and created their own version. While painting the tree, a physician stopped by to inquire about what the team was doing and asked if he could participate, and another bird was added.
The leaves of gratitude will continue to grow and fill out with notes and as the seasons change, the leaves will “fall.”
This is one of several examples of the plant operations leaders at Kadlec working together to explore ways to bring their team closer, address burnout, and create a positive caregiver experience.
Related
See Tools for Mitigating Burnout, the IS & RESO Caregiver Experience Committee feature for May 2021.