At Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital, Professional Governance forms the foundation of our practice environment, promoting collaboration, leadership growth and autonomy. This governance model ensures that professionals are actively involved in shared decision-making, giving clinical nurses a meaningful voice. From unit-based councils to hospital-wide initiatives, nurses at every level help define best practices, drive innovation and improve patient outcomes.

• The Clinical Practice Council defines standards of care across all practice areas.
• The Professional Development Council advances the art and science of nursing practice.
• The Research, Evidence-Based Practice, Innovation and Technology Council (REBPIT) fosters inquiry and supports evidence-based practices and research, while promoting safety, quality and service through innovation and technology. REBPIT also oversees the Clinical Informatics and Technology Sub-Council.

New additions include:

• Charge Collective Council, which brings operational leaders together to share best practices, strengthen interprofessional relationships, and improve quality and safety.
• Night Shift Shared Governance Council, which enhances communication and collaboration among night-shift teams.
• Patient Experience Council, which focuses on improving patient experience through shared ideas and problem-solving.

Through these councils, Houston Methodist Baytown supports nursing practice and professional development. Clinical nurses receive mentorship in project development, career advancement and leadership roles, building confidence and reinforcing a culture of excellence.   

A clear example of this support was the First Annual Houston Methodist Baytown Nursing Symposium on June 13, 2025, where clinical nurses showcased innovative projects addressing unit challenges and improving patient care. Projects included:

• Evaluation of barriers in ultrasound-guided IV training
• Enhancing collaboration through DISC personality insights
• Multidisciplinary rounds for better patient and team outcomes
• Pressure injury prevention using reactive support surface overlays
• Hands-only CPR training for families of critical care patients
• Nurse-driven early mobility initiatives

These presentations highlight Houston Methodist Baytown’s commitment to inquiry, innovation and interprofessional collaboration. 

Houston Methodist Baytown’s Professional Governance reflects the core principles of the Magnet® Recognition Program: Transformational Leadership, Structural Empowerment, Exemplary Professional Practice, New Knowledge, Innovations and Improvements, and Empirical Outcomes. By weaving these principles into daily practice, Houston Methodist Baytown fosters a culture of excellence that benefits both patients and caregivers.