As we reflect on the past year, our commitment to focusing our efforts and achieving outcomes is evident in the numerous achievements highlighted in this year’s annual report.

The exceptional dedication and commitment of our nursing teams to delivering high-quality patient care, along with our ongoing investment in our organizational culture, have not only guided our vision for the future but have also led to several significant outcomes benefiting both those we serve and those with whom we work.

Throughout the system, our nursing teams have made strides in improving outcomes. Initiatives such as the partnership between the Meridian medical-surgical units and the system Fall Prevention Collaborative aimed at piloting new whiteboards to reduce the number of falls with injury; the Wood River Emergency Department project focused on sepsis recognition and treatment; and the implementation of the burgundy zone in the Boise Emergency Department to address an increase in patient elopements and staff injuries have all played a vital role in enhancing quality and the patient experience. Additionally, patient perception of care showed improvement in 2023.

Stabilizing the nursing workforce was a primary focus area in 2023. Our nursing teams have expressed appreciation for career development opportunities, a collaborative culture, and the provision of new spaces to deliver care more effectively and efficiently. We are also witnessing higher retention rates among nursing team members who aspire to grow their careers with St. Luke’s. Together, we have fostered a sense of belonging, improved communication channels to keep our workforce informed, and demonstrated accountability in advocating for safety.

In 2023, we introduced the team nursing care delivery model, marking a shift from a primary care nursing model to team-based care delivery. This model allows for adaptability across different unit sizes and incorporates caregivers at all levels of education and experience. Team nursing promotes shared responsibility within defined roles and provides a framework for mentoring, teamwork, and skill development, which has also enabled the integration of LPNs into acute care settings at St. Luke’s. New graduate nursing staff have reported increased confidence in their training and overall success with this model, and early results suggest that team nursing enhances the care experience for both patients and nurses.

As we look ahead to 2024, I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that await us. As we navigate the ever-evolving health care landscape, it is crucial we remain agile and adaptable. I extend my gratitude and congratulations to each member of our nursing team for their contributions to advancing nursing excellence.

Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on each other and the communities we serve.

Elizabeth Steger, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE 
Senior Vice President, Clinical Practice Integration / Chief Nurse Executive

System  Demographics