Beyond the Rounds: How Proactive Discharge Planning Benefits Everyone (Internal Locus of Control)

The NICU thrives on a collaborative spirit. While the neonatologist holds the final say on discharge, every team member plays a crucial role. During rounds recently, a junior staff member's question sparked an insightful conversation. She inquired about a seemingly stable baby who hadn't yet gone home. This wasn't a challenge to authority, but a genuine concern for the well-being of the infant.

In some instances, individuals might see this situation as outside their control, a classic case of external locus of control. The mindset might be, "The doctor decides, it's not my place to say." However, the NICU operates as a cohesive unit.

The junior staff member, by voicing her observation, demonstrated an internal locus of control. She believed her input mattered. And it absolutely does! Imagine if, after careful assessment, she had proactively suggested discharge to the neonatologist, highlighting the baby's progress and readiness for home life (with safety always being paramount, of course).

This wouldn't be overstepping boundaries; it's valuable teamwork. By taking initiative, she could have potentially expedited the discharge process, reuniting a family sooner. Additionally, freeing up resources would allow the NICU to care for other critical cases. This proactive approach benefits everyone – the baby enjoys a familiar environment, the parents experience the joy of being reunited, and the NICU operates more efficiently.

This is just one example, but the lesson transcends the NICU walls. Don't hesitate to voice your observations and insights, even if the final decision rests with someone else. By taking initiative and believing in your ability to make a positive difference (internal locus of control), you can truly contribute to better outcomes not just in the NICU, but in any workplace you find yourself in.