Power of idées
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Akademiska Sjukhuset |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 540 000 |
| Project duration | October 2016 - September 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The goal of Idékraft was to create, in the neonatal unit, a structure for receiving ideas and a culture where innovation is part of everyday life. To succeed, the whole staff was trained in the structure for receiving ideas and in seeing the value of bigger as well as smaller ideas. We also discussed long term positive effects of an idea friendly climate for their children in terms of the importance of parents taking active part in the care of their children, and that parents feel listened to when making suggestions on how to improve the care their children receive.
Expected results and effects
Based on interviews with parents and members of staff, the structure and culture that are Idékraft were created. Structure enables receiving ideas in a professional way. Culture creates a climate where ideas are encouraged and thrive into new solutions. Despite short project time and a ward in crisis (shortage of staff, reduced number of beds, fewer parents present), 59 ideas were received. Idékraft is now made permanent. There is big interest in Idékraft from other units and hospitals. Dissemination to 11 new units at the Children’s hospital is planned for spring 2018.
Planned approach and implementation
The project was anchored with the management of the Children’s hospital early on. Interviews with staff and parents rendered acceptance in the entire neonatal unit. Training of staff provided a common knowledge base regarding the project and the proposed routine for managing ideas. We have created clear roles: an idea coordinator receives and documents the idea and a board assesses whether it meets a need in the unit. The staff can now continue the work themselves. When Idékraft is disseminated to other units, a network of idea coordinators will form that can exchange experiences.