As leaders, we're constantly problem-solving and, typically, no day goes by without a dilemma that needs solutions. Some are easier than others, a few seemingly insurmountable, and they all challenge us. Do you find yourself reaching for quick fixes? I do, too, and sometimes that's all you need. However, you know when it's really just a Band-Aid response. Getting to root-cause solutions is hard work-the opposite of a simple box of Band-Aids.
Quick fixes rarely result in sustainable improvement, unless of course the problem is an "easy" one. Is your staff having trouble remembering to wipe down rolling equipment after patient use? Placing a wipe holder on it gives a visual cue plus accessibility, which can work as a long-term solution. That's relatively easy. Less simple scenarios that may warrant quick fixes include chaotic situations when a Band-Aid or two can ease concerns and promote comfort.
If only all of our challenges could be solved with Band-Aid solutions. It makes us feel better when we've done something to help. Sending pizza to a unit unable to take a meal break comes to mind-the real solution to the problem is making sure everyone actually gets a meal break. Don't get me wrong, it's a nice gesture, but make sure break-less shifts aren't the accepted status quo.
During pandemic surge waves when we were struggling to survive, Band-Aid solutions worked. We were agile in figuring it out as we went along and many of the quick fixes were innovative. Bar coding I.V. pumps outside of patient rooms and writing patient data on the room windows comes to mind. Higher-level quick fixes included allowing interstate licensure even in noncompact states and executive state orders that relieved documentation burden. Those Band-Aids need real policy change to sustain the pandemic practice improvements.
Sometimes I think the focus on resilience for staff is also a Band-Aid. Of course, we all need to be at the top of our resilience game in these times to help us survive and even thrive. However, as our editorial board member Dr. Jeff Doucette says, resilience is an individual's strategy. As leaders, we have to work on the root causes within our organizations and practice environments that require individuals to need additional survival strength. Resilience training without attention to de-stressing managers and staff isn't a long-term success strategy.
We don't have to be so hard on Band-Aids. They protect wounds, allow for healing, and are inexpensive and easy to use. As one of my colleagues reminds me, don't overthink things or let perfection be the enemy of improvement. But it's systems-thinking that gets us past quick fixes. We've learned this repeatedly in our quality improvement endeavors: Ask the five whys, get to the root, and don't blame individuals when there are system issues getting in the way of performance. Blame is a Band-Aid too. So is sending an email to "remind" staff about a practice without further follow through.
Quick fixes may be all you need for easy problems, but truly sustainable change most often requires a deeper dive. Our practice environments are complex, not simple. Avoid reaching into a box of Band-Aids when a more multifaceted resolution is needed. Your team will thank you.
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