Nursing Coursework

Fundamental Elements of a Model for Change (Lewin’s Change Theory)
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Introduction
Change management refers to the efforts an organization makes when implementing changes within an organization (Bull & Brown, 2012). Change in every organization is hard to implement and adapt. A change model considers ways to sustain change and ensure a smooth transition for those involved. This paper will focus on the Lewin’s Change Theory and its stages.
Unfreezing
People are definitely resistant to change upon introduction. Most people lie in the comfort of the status quo, which makes them afraid of changing. Creating this awareness among them and showing them the need for change is a major step toward implementing change (Lewin, 2016). Communication is the major tool in this stage. Sometimes change inevitable. This stage involves communicating the need and inevitability of change within an organization. When people realize that change has to happen, they accept it faster.
Changing
Change is a process. This stage involves a transition from the old ways of doing things to the new processes (Lewin, 2016). The affected parties already know what to change and the benefits of this change. It is a learning process where people incorporate new skills to reach preset outcomes. There may be still a lot of doubt and uncertainty, and communication, training, and motivation are essential elements in this stage. There should be reminders and appreciation for the efforts the partakers make towards implementation of the change.

Refreezing
This is a re-stabilization process where the organization tries to create new norms and organizational structures (Lewin, 2016). At this point, people are already comfortable with the changes they implemented. It is essential to reinforce these changes to ensure people do not go back to the old ways. Positive rewards and acknowledgment are essential in cementing the changes implemented. However, these changes should not be made permanent since there is always a constant need for change in organizations.
Conclusion
Change is sometimes inevitable. Change management is a process, even in healthcare. Nurses and other stakeholders in healthcare organizations need to go through the stages explained above to fully incorporate change and form new habits and ways of doing things.

References
Bull, M., & Brown, T. (2012). Implementing Change. Facilities Change Management, 108-122. doi:10.1002/9781119967316.ch8
Lewin, K. (2016). Lewin’s Change Theory – Nursing Theory. Retrieved from http://www.nursing-theory.org/theories-and-models/Lewin-Change-Theory.php