(62) A Dose of Fun: Effects of an Employee Engagement Committee

Title: A Dose of Fun: Effects of an Employee Engagement Committee

Abstract : Basis of Inquiry:

Low staff morale in the healthcare setting impacts patient care and clinic productivity. Due to a lack of emotional support and high turnover, the outpatient clinic went through a period of employee burnout and disengagement, thus the Employee Engagement Committee (EEC) was created.



Purpose – Quality Improvement:

The purpose is to explore the effects of an EEC in the outpatient setting and identify the impact on staff morale, interdisciplinary collaboration, and overall workplace culture by fostering communication and addressing stress. Targeted initiatives were implemented such as team building exercises, staff recognition programs, and wellness support. This project highlights the importance of a sustainable, employee-centered program in a high stress specialty.



Methods

Clinic-wide emails sent monthly feature a calendar of upcoming events, birthdays, and celebrations. Events include engaging and fun activities such as coffee and hot chocolate bars, book swaps, Valentine’s Day exchanges, Happy Hour, and potluck meals. Morale boosting activities such as World Kindness Day, were implemented to build a supportive and positive workplace culture.



Findings:

A survey was sent out to analyze the implementation of the committee. Survey analysis revealed improvements in key areas such as job satisfaction, collaboration, and culture and showed that the EEC led to increased job satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging. Participants reported that they collaborated across disciplines with the organization of events, leading to a more fun, inclusive culture.



Conference Learning Gaps:

Psychosocial – Mental/Emotional Support, Communication

Nursing Practice – Burnout, Self-Care/Resiliency



Learning Outcomes:

The learner will be able to identify that through the creation of such a committee and implementing engaging activities, the result will encourage team building a foster a fun working environment to boost the overall morale.