During a recent partner site visit, a Nurse Unit Manager shared a moment that really struck a chord. While having a rounding conversation, a patient gently said:
“I don’t think it’s fair that staff have to update the whiteboards. They already have so much to do.”
It was such a compassionate observation, the patient could see how busy the team was. But it also revealed something deeper. To this patient, updating the care board looked like just another task. And maybe, for some of the team, that’s what they had communicated.
But here’s the thing, those whiteboards aren’t just for compliance. They’re part of how we keep patients informed, how we build trust, and how we support safe, connected care. When done with intention, they become a simple but powerful way to communicate that supports partnership and drives care outcomes.
This moment reminded me how important it is for all of us, clinical and non-clinical, to stay connected to the why behind what we do. When we understand the impact of even the smallest actions, our work becomes more than a checklist. It becomes care.
As leaders, how do we help our teams feel that sense of purpose?
- Talk about the why — Don’t assume people see it. Show how the task links to a better patient experience.
- Share stories — The real ones. Patient comments, family feedback, things that spark pride.
- Celebrate often — Let people know their work matters. Recognition reinforces purpose.
Our teams work incredibly hard, often in challenging conditions. Every day, they make a difference; and every action, big or small, is part of that.
When we help staff see the impact of their work, we do more than lift engagement — we improve care.
Connecting tasks to their impact on engagement:
