Introduction to Theresa McDonnell
Theresa McDonnell, DNP, RN, is a unique healthcare executive who serves as the chief nurse executive at Duke University Health System, one of the top academic health systems in the U.S. What sets her apart is that she remains a practicing oncology nurse, bringing a dual perspective to the decisions she makes. This blend of boardroom strategy and bedside reality enables her to approach challenges with a deeper understanding of the needs of both the healthcare system and its patients.
Addressing Clinician Burnout
Most health systems are reacting to clinician burnout, but McDonnell is proactively making changes. She is spearheading innovative workforce and safety initiatives, including frontline-led innovations like virtual reality-based workplace safety training and artificial intelligence-powered staffing tools. These initiatives have already shown positive results, decreasing nurse overtime and improving retention.
Redefining Academia and Clinical Practice
McDonnell is also working to redefine the relationship between academia and clinical practice. By bridging Duke’s medical school and health system, she aims to positively impact how the next generation of nurses is trained and retained. This approach could lead to better prepared nurses who are equipped to handle the challenges of the healthcare system.
Technology-Enabled Strategy
When asked about her technology-enabled strategy at Duke, McDonnell discussed the use of immersive virtual reality for safety education. This approach was developed by frontline nurses who identified gaps in traditional training methods, particularly in preparing for real-time conflict de-escalation. The result is a VR platform that places clinicians in simulated high-stress scenarios, allowing them to build confidence and muscle memory in a safe environment.
Outcomes of the VR Training
The VR training has been highly effective, with over 5,000 hours of practice completed and a measurable reduction in reported workplace violence incidents. Nurses feel more prepared, supported, and in control of their safety. This training is part of a broader redefinition of professional development, shifting from compliance-based models to experiential, human-centered learning.
AI-Powered Staffing Tools
Another innovation led by McDonnell is the use of AI-powered staffing tools designed to decrease nurse overtime and improve retention. These tools use real-time data to forecast patient demand and recommend dynamic staffing adjustments, giving nurses greater predictability and control over their schedules. The design process involved nurses from the outset, ensuring that the tools solve real problems and are user-friendly.
Outcomes of AI-Powered Staffing Tools
The outcomes have been positive, with a 23% reduction in overtime, an 18% improvement in retention, and strengthened continuity of care. The tools have reinforced the broader workforce strategy, enabling better insight to support decision-making and improving the quality of life for nurses.
Compassion in Healthcare
McDonnell’s vision is rooted in compassion, which she believes fuels clarity. By understanding the lived experiences of staff, healthcare systems can create smarter systems and stronger outcomes. Compassion is not just about easing discomfort but about designing care environments where people feel seen, supported, and equipped to do their work.
Restoring Trust
When discussing burnout, McDonnell focuses on restoring trust between the system and clinicians. This involves embedding compassion into operations, listening without judgment, involving staff in shaping the tools they use, and creating workflows that respect their expertise. By leading with empathy and following with action, healthcare systems can alleviate friction and ensure that technology adapts to the human, not the other way around.
Conclusion
Theresa McDonnell’s approach to healthcare is unique and innovative, combining compassion, technology, and a deep understanding of the needs of both the healthcare system and its patients. By addressing clinician burnout, redefining academia and clinical practice, and leveraging technology-enabled strategies, McDonnell is making a positive impact on the healthcare system. Her focus on compassion and empathy is restoring trust and creating a better work environment for nurses, which ultimately benefits patients.
FAQs
- Q: What is Theresa McDonnell’s role at Duke University Health System?
A: Theresa McDonnell serves as the chief nurse executive at Duke University Health System. - Q: What initiatives is McDonnell leading to address clinician burnout?
A: McDonnell is leading initiatives such as virtual reality-based workplace safety training and AI-powered staffing tools to decrease nurse overtime and improve retention. - Q: How does McDonnell’s approach to healthcare involve compassion?
A: McDonnell’s approach is rooted in compassion, which she believes fuels clarity and is essential for creating smarter systems and stronger outcomes. - Q: What are the outcomes of the VR training and AI-powered staffing tools?
A: The VR training has reduced reported workplace violence incidents, and the AI-powered staffing tools have reduced overtime by 23% and improved retention by 18%.
