Nurses’ Experiences and Perceptions of a Stroke Nurse Champion Committee: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Stroke nurse champion committees (SNCCs) are designed to enhance nurse engagement in stroke care through quality improvement initiatives and education. However, limited research explores bedside nurses’ experiences and perceptions of participation in these committees.

Objective: This study aimed to examine nurses' motivations for joining the SNCC, their experiences within the committee, and their perceptions of its impact on stroke education, communication, and process improvements.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used, with focus groups conducted via Zoom. Participants were bedside nurses actively involved in a hospital-based SNCC. Discussions were transcribed and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) Motivation for Participation – nurses joined to expand their stroke knowledge and contribute to process improvements; (2) Process Improvement Engagement – participants valued their role in refining stroke protocols and implementing changes; (3) Enhanced Communication and Empowerment – the committee facilitated interdisciplinary collaboration and gave nurses a stronger voice in stroke care decisions; and (4) Barriers to Participation – scheduling conflicts and a perceived lack of impact on system-wide changes, particularly in electronic health record (EHR) modifications, were identified as challenges.

Conclusions: This study highlights the role of SNCCs in empowering nurses, fostering interdisciplinary communication, and enhancing stroke education. While participation was generally perceived as beneficial, logistical and systemic barriers limited engagement. Addressing these challenges through increased flexibility, stronger leadership support, and mechanisms for implementing committee recommendations could enhance SNCC effectiveness. These findings provide insights into nurse-led quality improvement efforts and suggest strategies for optimizing nurse involvement in stroke governance and patient care improvement.

Keywords: stroke nurse champion, process improvement, stroke care, nursing empowerment, qualitative research, interdisciplinary collaboration