A survey-based system for safety measurement and improvement.

Problem: A task force sought to develop a method for safety measurement that is reliable and valid and provides a framework for improvement efforts.

Method: Over a 10-year period, through working in a chemical company with about 6,000 employees and over 50 plants, the authors researched the use of employee surveys to measure safety and as a diagnostic tool for improvement efforts.

Results: The statistical studies indicate that this survey, which evolved from the Minnesota Safety Perception Survey, is both reliable and valid as a measurement tool.

Collaborative research: a community approach.

Collaborative nursing research is an effective means to increase research productivity. The essentials of collaborative research are contribution, communication, commitment, consensus, compatibility, and a cohesive approach toward a positive outcome. The purpose of the demonstration project was to describe a collaborative process in one community, culminating in a research utilization study and development of nursing standards pertaining to an aggregate population of patients.

Comparison of two endotracheal tube securement techniques on unplanned extubation, oral mucosa, and facial skin integrity.

Objective: To determine the effect of 2 standard methods (i.e., twill tape versus adhesive tape) of securement on unplanned extubation, oral mucosa, and facial skin integrity of the orally intubated patient.