Phelp LPNtoRN 6e

CHAPTER 3 • Adapting to Change 69

Transformational Change Transformational change can occur within the process of planned change. In your return to school, a change will occur as you progress through your ADN course work. With this process of change will come not only new knowledge and skills but also a new way of thinking and being. Transformational change can occur for an individual or an organization and implies that there is a radical difference as a result of change. This radical change results in the individual or organization experiencing a transition. Such a transition must be managed well, as described by Bridges and Bridges (2016), for there to be a positive outcome. As discussed in the previous chapter, attention must be given to managing each of the three phases of the transition—endings, the neutral zone, and the new beginning (see Chapter 2, Box 2.4). THINKING CRITICALLY Review the types of change that have been described. Think of experiences that have involved change in your life. Categorize these changes according to the previous descriptions. Consider these changes in terms of individual, group, and organizational changes. Are any of them transformational in nature? Why? In what ways were the three phases of the transition managed well? In what ways could they have been managed better? STAGES OF PLANNED CHANGE The process of change is complex because it involves the modification of behaviors. Unplanned change is, obviously, less structured and more haphazard than planned change. When change is planned, there will be a more systematic approach that entails problem-solving, decision-making, and deliberate steps. Kurt Lewin was a social sci entist credited with doing the first work in change theory. The following text outlines his theory of planned change, which remains a core foundation of change theory today. You may see some similarities between Lewin and the more contemporary work done by William Bridges, discussed in the previous chapter. Lewin’s (1951) theory remains applicable to nursing practice today, more than seven decades later. Box 3.2 summarizes this theory. The NCLEX-RN Might Ask 3.1 The nurse is taking care of a large group of clients in a community care setting. Because of the high influx of new clients, the nurse manager independently decides to make a radical change in the way clients are assessed and processed. This type of radical change would be most consistent with: a. transactional change. b. transformational change. c. unplanned change. d. spontaneous change. ••See Appendix A for correct answer and rationale.

Copyright © 2025 Wolters Kluwer, Inc. Unauthorized reproduction of the content is prohibited.