Healthcare and Nonprofit Executive | Nursing Leadership Researcher | Quality Improvement Expert | Perinatal Service Line Exec
I see so many posts here on LinkedIn about nursing innovation which is amazing. There seem to be many definitions of nursing innovation that exist within organizations and the literature. Some authors say change and innovation are the same thing. So, let’s discuss…are change and innovation the same thing? And is there an overarching definition of nursing innovation we should use? Do disparate and sometimes conflicting definitions dilute the real and potential impact of nursing innovation? And how do we ultimately measure the impact of innovation? Melissa Mills, RN, BSN, MHA Rebecca Love RN, MSN, FIEL Rachel Sheehan Carlie Austin Ali Fakher, BSN, RN, Synova Associates LLC American Academy of Nursing American Nurses Association Lynda Benton Bonnie Clipper DNP, MA, MBA, RN, CENP, FACHE, FAAN East Carolina University College of Nursing Danielle K. McCamey, DNP, ACNP-BC, FCCP, FADLN #innovation #nursinginnovation #mondaymusings #nursingiskey
I think by definition, innovation refers to the introduction of something novel or entirely new, such as a groundbreaking idea, technology, or method that hasn't existed before. On the other hand, change involves making modifications or improvements to something that may already exist. While change can include innovation when it involves implementing new ideas or technologies, innovation itself inherently leads to change by altering the status quo or introducing new ways of doing things. For me, innovation and change are interconnected: innovation drives change, and change can encompass innovative elements. Or at least this is what I go by as a CNS hardwired to be a change agent 😊
Carlie Austin
3mo
I believe you can have change without innovation, but you cannot have innovation without change. To me, innovation is rooted in this concept of untapped creativity and possibility that changes or inspires a novel way of thinking and being. However, without the acknowledgment that a space can benefit from evolutionary changes of all kinds, innovation wouldn’t exist. To your point, Elizabeth Rochin Ph.D., RN, it is important to understand the relationship and the difference between the two.
Thank you, Elizabeth Rochin Ph.D., RN, for bringing up such an important discussion! While change is often a catalyst for innovation, I believe they are distinct yet interconnected. Change can be incremental and reactive, while innovation is more proactive, focusing on transforming processes and creating new value. As for nursing innovation, it’s essential that we have a clear, unified definition to prevent dilution of its impact and to ensure we can effectively measure outcomes. Standardizing how we view and assess nursing innovation will allow us to truly elevate the profession and drive sustainable, meaningful advancements.
To me they are different. Change are your general updated EBP changes, new products etc. innovation is development, see something and make something NEW that didn’t exist prior to deliver your care or work better. More efficient, effective and smoother for the patient/nurse delivering care.
Innovation and change are two different topics. Within innovation, you might make changes. Change is doing something different; change may not include innovation but past experiences. As a nursing student, I am open to change especially in how I communicate with others; innovation could be a new device or technology. Once the technology is developed and tested, one makes improved changes.
Innovation is the vision Elizabeth Rochin Ph.D., RN. Change is the action and strategic alignment necessary to achieve that vision. The interesting side note is also that the vision may change throughout the implementation. We learn as we go, if we’re smart. Sometimes the surprises and detours lead to even great achievements. Interesting question! We’ll carry this forward.
Passionate NICU advocate, Neonatal Nurse Leader, Status Quo Disruptor, former NNP, NICU RN, & NICU mom
3moI like your delineation Karizma Maxson DNP, MSN, RN-NIC! I tend to agree with you. I think of innovation as a new way to solve an old problem. Innovation can lead to change which is NOT a bad thing! Unfortunately, “change” has developed such a negative connotation, but if it leads to improved outcomes why don’t we as nurses embrace it? Personally, I am grateful that neonatal nursing has changed from how it was practiced when my son was in the NICU 35 years ago. Many of those changes have been a result of innovative nurses finding new & better ways to provide care. I can only imagine how different my son’s outcome would’ve been if he would have been born at 29 weeks gestation today versus in 1989.