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Table 2 Definitions of key themes and sub-themes derived from the AACN TeleICU Nursing Practice Recommendations11

From: Communication and role clarity inform TeleICU use: a qualitative analysis of opportunities and barriers in an established program using AACN framework

AACN Recommendation and Theme or sub-theme

Definition

Collaborative work environment

Recommendation that the teleICU and health care organization establish and maintain a healthy work environment to optimize patient outcomes.

Tools for effective collaboration

Using professional communication skills, sharing goals, and having relevant patient information during teleICU and ICU interactions.

Mutual respect

Demonstrating collegial interactions, recognizing team member roles, and protecting privacy and confidentiality.

Collaborative leadership

The process of integrating teleICU and ICU practices at staff/unit and organizational levels of leadership

Unique teleICU knowledge

Recommendation that teleICU nurses establish specific knowledge and skills to contribute to nursing practice and patient outcomes.

Specialized skills

Having ICU clinical knowledge, demonstrating technological knowledge, systems thinking, and/or adaptability to adjust workflow as the environment changes.

Execution

The process of identifying proactive interventions (preventing urgent situation), identifying or responding to an urgent situation, or providing real-time clinical decision support.

Continuous improvement

Recommendation that teleICU nurses and ICUs partner in implementing best practices and measuring patient outcomes to optimize care.

Measure value

The practice of monitoring or communicating teleICU interventions or outcomes to co-workers, unit(s), and/or organizations.

Partnerships

The process of teleICU and unit collaborating to improve outcomes. i.e. collecting quality improvement data to improve patient outcomes, mentoring new clinicians to improve transition to practice.