Learning from excellence: a thematic analysis of staff-reported excellence in healthcare from two acute NHS trusts (6 November 2023)

Summary

Learning from excellence is a philosophy and practice designed to capture positive events in healthcare in order to improve quality and safety, while also providing positive feedback to staff. This study aimed to identify themes in staff-reported excellence to understand the conditions and behaviours that can allow excellence to occur.

The study identified five overarching, interdependent themes:

1. Pro-social behaviours could have a positive impact on staff experience and patient care.
2. Witnessed expertise in technical and non-technical skills were a source of appreciation and gratitude for staff.
3. A positive work ethic could benefit patient experience, staff productivity and morale.
4. Staff appreciated personalised patient care that deviates from the norm but results in a positive outcome.
5. Effective leadership and teamwork were often characterised by resilience and excellent interpersonal skills.