AACN Synergy Model

The Synergy Model for Patient Care, developed by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, has been adopted by the faculty and integrated into the undergraduate and graduate nursing curriculums. The core concept of the Synergy Model is that the needs or characteristics of patients and families influence the characteristics or competencies of the nurse. Synergy results when the needs and characteristics of a patient, clinical unit or system match those of the nurse.

The Synergy Model describes eight patient characteristics (needs) and eight nurse characteristics (competencies); patient needs drive nurse competencies. Each individual characteristic is further delineated by levels of complexity or intensity. The core competencies of the nurse include clinical judgment, advocacy, clinical practices, collaboration, systems thinking, response to diversity, clinical inquiry and facilitation of learning. These eight competencies provide the basis for program and level outcomes in the undergraduate program. An additional ninth program/level outcome focuses on the synergy between the nurse's competencies and patient characteristics as it relates to patient outcomes. Similarly, the graduate program outcomes are based on these same nurse characteristics but at a higher level. Underlying all competencies is the unique contribution of nurses to provide safe passage for patients and their families through the health care environment.

The table below illustrates the relationship between nurse competencies of the Synergy Model and the MSN program outcomes.