Sharp Memorial Hospital Emergency Department

San Diego, California

Shared governance and collaborative decision-making are key factors driving employee engagement and satisfaction within the Sharp Memorial Hospital Emergency Department. This model is foundational to how meaningful improvements in both clinical practice and workplace culture advance within the 64-bed ED. Bedside nurses are empowered to influence policies, workflows and quality initiatives to ensure they are evidence-based, patient-centered and informed by front-line expertise. A cornerstone of this work is the Unit Practice Council, which is co-chaired by two bedside nurses and includes other nurses, ED technicians, a clinical nurse specialist, materials specialists, physicians and leadership representatives. Through this interdisciplinary partnership, staff have a direct voice in decision-making and play an active role in shaping the future of the department.

Reward and recognition are essential drivers of employee engagement and retention. The department’s High Five Beehive team includes front-line leaders and staff and promotes inclusive recognition programs that celebrate peer and patient acknowledgements, certifications, service anniversaries and exceptional performance. Gab and Grub is a program where fostering connection, professional growth and open communication through informal staff engagement sessions occurs monthly.