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Alternatives to hiring an FTE as project coordinator

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, June 28, 2005

One of the first steps facilities should complete when preparing to pursue ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® status is selecting a project coordinator. This is a time-consuming role that requires a dedicated, passionate, and organized leader. If hiring a full-time employee (FTE) isn't in your budget, consider the following alternatives:

• A member of the nursing leadership team serves as the project coordinator. Other members of the team assist with his or her operational duties. Cost is budget-neutral and remains in the nursing operation budget.
  
• The steering committee accepts responsibility for many of the tasks, so members spend only 25% of their effort on the project as part of their professional responsibilities. Cost is budget-neutral.
  
• Members of the nursing leadership team divide tasks and writing as part of their professional responsibility. The project is a collaborative effort. Cost remains budget-neutral. In this case, an external reader must review and edit all documents so they are in one voice and one writing style.
  
• A nursing director or nurse manager assumes the role of project coordinator at 100% effort. They are replaced for the next two years by an internal candidate serving in the role on an interim basis. The cost of a leader assuming the role of project coordinator is charged to the budget; the replacement cost remains in the nursing operation budget.

Editor's note: The best practice above is adapted from HCPro's CD-ROM, HCPro's E-mail Tools for the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.

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