Amy Witkoski Stimpfel

Faculty

Amy Witkoski Stimpfel Headshot

Amy Witkoski Stimpfel

PhD RN

Assistant Professor

1 212 992 9387

433 First Ave
New York, NY 10010
United States

Accepting PhD students

Amy Witkoski Stimpfel's additional information

Amy Witkoski Stimpfel is an assistant professor at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing and the Program Director of the doctoral training program in occupational and environmental health nursing, part of the NY/NJ ERC, funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (T42-OH-008422). Broadly, her research expertise centers on how to optimize nurses’ work environments to improve nurse well-being and clinical outcomes. Specifically, her program of research seeks to identify how the organization of work related to shift work, scheduling, and sleep influences nurses’ health and well-being, patient safety, and organizational outcomes. Her scholarship is rooted in theories and methods used in health services research, occupational health and safety, sleep/circadian science, and nursing. Dr. Witkoski Stimpfel’s research has been funded by the American Nurses Foundation, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and others and published in leading interprofessional journals such as Health Affairs, Health Services Research, and The International Journal of Nursing Studies. Prior to joining the Meyers faculty, Dr. Witkoski Stimpfel completed a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in the Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Research. Dr. Witkoski Stimpfel earned a PhD and MS at the University of Pennsylvania and a BSN, cum laude, from Villanova University.

PhD - University of Pennsylvania (2011)
MS - University of Pennsylvania (2009)
BSN - Villanova University (Cum Laude, 2006)

Nursing workforce
Health Services Research

AcademyHealth
American Association of Occupational Health Nurses
American Nurses Association
Eastern Nursing Research Society
Sigma Theta Tau International
Sleep Research Society

Faculty Honors Awards

Excellence in Nursing Research Award (2022)
Connelly-Delouvrier Scholarship for International Nursing in Ireland
At-large member, Advisory Committee of the Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues (IRGNI)
Inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society
T01 Pre-doctoral fellowship, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
T32 Post-doctoral fellowship, National Institute of Nursing Research

Publications

Bachelor's Degree Nurse Graduates Report Better Quality and Safety Educational Preparedness than Associate Degree Graduates

Djukic, M., Stimpfel, A. W., & Kovner, C. (2019). Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, 45(3), 180-186. 10.1016/j.jcjq.2018.08.008
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Readiness of the nursing workforce in quality and safety competencies is an essential indicator of a health system's ability to deliver high-quality and safe health care. A previous study identified important quality and safety education gaps between associate- and baccalaureate-prepared new nurses who graduated between 2004 and 2005. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in nursing workforce quality and safety education preparedness by examining educational gaps between associate and bachelor's degree graduates in two additional cohorts of new nurses who graduated between 2007–2008 and 2014–2015. Methods: A cross-sectional, comparative design and chi-square tests were used to trend the quality and safety educational preparedness differences between associate and bachelor's degree nurse graduates from 13 states and the District of Columbia licensed in 2007–2008 (N = 324) and 2014–2015 (N = 803). Results: The number of quality and safety educational gaps between bachelor's and associate degree nurse graduates more than doubled over eight years. In the 2007–2008 cohort, RNs with a bachelor's degree reported being significantly better prepared than RNs with an associate degree in 5 of 16 topics. In the 2014–2015 cohort, bachelor's degree RNs reported being significantly better prepared than associate degree RNs in 12 of 16 topics. Conclusion: Improving accreditation and organizational policies requiring baccalaureate education for all nurses could close quality and safety education gaps to safeguard the quality of patient care.

Common predictors of nurse-reported quality of care and patient safety

Stimpfel, A. W., Djukic, M., Brewer, C. S., & Kovner, C. T. (2019). Health Care Management Review, 44(1), 57-66. 10.1097/HMR.0000000000000155
Abstract
Abstract
Background: In the era of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, quality of care and patient safety in health care have never been more visible to patients or providers. Registered nurses (nurses) are key players not only in providing direct patient care but also in evaluating the quality and safety of care provided to patients and families. Purpose: We had the opportunity to study a unique cohort of nurses to understand more about the common predictors of nurse-reported quality of care and patient safety across acute care settings. Approach: We analyzed cross-sectional survey data that were collected in 2015 from 731 nurses, as part of a national 10-year panel study of nurses. Variables selected for inclusion in regression analyses were chosen based on the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model, which is composed of work system or structure, process, and outcomes. Results: Our findings indicate that factors from three components of the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model-Work System (person, environment, and organization) are predictive of quality of care and patient safety as reported by nurses. The main results from our multiple linear and logistic regression models suggest that significant predictors common to both quality and safety were job satisfaction and organizational constraints. In addition, unit type and procedural justice were associated with patient safety, whereas better nurse-physician relations were associated with quality of care. Conclusion: Increasing nurses' job satisfaction and reducing organizational constraints may be areas to focus on to improve quality of care and patient safety. Practical Implications: Our results provide direction for hospitals and nurse managers as to how to allocate finite resources to achieve improvements in quality of care and patient safety alike.

A comparison of scheduling, work hours, overtime, and work preferences across four cohorts of newly licensed Registered Nurses

Stimpfel, A. W., Fletcher, J., & Kovner, C. T. (2019). Journal of Advanced Nursing, 75(9), 1902-1910. 10.1111/jan.13972
Abstract
Abstract
Aims: To conduct a comparative analysis of four cohorts of newly licensed Registered Nurses and their work schedule, daily shift length, weekly work hours, second job, and weekly overtime hours. Nurses also reported their preferences regarding work schedule and daily shift length. Design: We used a retrospective, comparative design analysing four cross-sectional surveys from new nurses first licensed between 2004–2015. Methods: Using state licensure lists, nurses who were first licensed between 1 August 2004 and 31 July 2005 were randomly sampled using a nested design in 23 geographical areas in 13 states and Washington, DC. The same sampling strategy was conducted for subsequent cohorts in January 2009, 2012, and 2016. We sent a mailed survey measuring demographics, education, work attributes, and attitudes to participants with a $5 incentive, following methods by Dillman. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in average weekly work hours (39.4 hrs) or holding more than one job for pay (11.6–14.6% across all cohorts). There were statistically significant differences in overtime across cohorts and shift length by unit type. The preferred shift length was 12 hrs and day shift was the preferred work schedule. Conclusion: New nurses are predominantly scheduled for 12-hrs shifts and nearly half work weekly overtime, trends that have remained relatively stable over the past 10 years. Nurse managers, policy-makers, and researchers should pay attention to new nurses’ schedule and shift preferences and guard against mandatory overtime hours.

Factors Predicting Adoption of the Nurses Improving Care of Healthsystem Elders Program

Stimpfel, A. W., & Gilmartin, M. J. (2019). Nursing Research, 68(1), 13-21. 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000327
Abstract
Abstract
Background Registered nurses are often underprepared with the knowledge and skills to care for hospitalized older adult patients. One strategy to bridge this gap is for hospitals to adopt the Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) program: A nurse-led interdisciplinary organizational intervention to improve care of hospitalized older adults. Objectives This study aimed to identify the market, organizational and managerial, and sociotechnical factors associated with the adoption of NICHE among U.S. hospitals in order to understand factors that promote and inhibit the adoption of models to improve care for elders and to provide a basis for future studies that evaluate the effects of NICHE participation on patient outcomes. Methods We used an observational, retrospective design, linking three national administrative data sources, in a secondary analysis. Data included the 2012-2013 American Hospital Association Annual Survey, NICHE database, and the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet database. Multivariate logistic regression models were completed at the hospital level (n = 3,506). Results Statistically significant variables associated with hospital adoption of the NICHE program include using a medical home model, being in a network, having a pain services program, being in an urban location, and having over 100 beds. Discussion Understanding factors that promote the adoption of organizational interventions like NICHE holds promise for accelerating the use of evidence-based clinical practices to promote health, function, and well-being for older hospitalized adults. Our results provide a foundation for assessing the effects of NICHE participation on patient outcomes by identifying factors that account for membership in NICHE.

How language barriers influence provider workload for home health care professionals: A secondary analysis of interview data

Squires, A., Miner, S., Liang, E., Lor, M., Ma, C., & Witkoski Stimpfel, A. (2019). International Journal of Nursing Studies, 99. 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2019.103394
Abstract
Abstract
BackgroundIncreasingly, patients with limited English proficiency are accessing home health care services in the United States. Few studies have examined how language barriers influence provider role implementation or workload in the home health care setting.ObjectivesTo explore home health care professionals’ perspectives about how workload changes from managing language barriers influence quality and safety in home health care.DesignA qualitative secondary data analysis using a summative content analysis approach was used to analyze existing semi-structured interview data.SettingA large urban home health care agency located on the East Coast of the United States.ParticipantsThirty five home health care providers [31 registered nurses, 3 physical therapists, 1 occupational therapist].ResultsA total of 142 discrete incidents emerged from the analysis. Overall, home health care providers experienced distinct shifts in how they implemented their roles that added to their workload and time spent with Limited English Proficiency patients and family members. Providers were concerned about interpretation accuracy and perceived it as potentially posing risks to patient safety. Changes in work patterns, therefore, sought to maximize patient safety.ConclusionsHome health care providers decision-making about how they adapt practice when faced with a language barrier is a sequence of actions based on awareness of the patient’s language preference and if they spoke another language. Subsequent choices showed proactive behaviors to manage increased workload shaped by their perceived risk of the threats posed by the quality of interpreter services. Future research should develop quantitative models examining differences in workload when caring for limited English proficiency versus English speaking patients as well as the relationship between visit length and patient outcomes to determine optimal quality models.

The Interdisciplinary Research Group on Nursing Issues: Advancing Health Services Research, Policy, Regulation, and Practice

Squires, A., Germack, H., Muench, U., Stolldorf, D., Witkoski-Stimpfel, A., Yakusheva, O., Brom, H., Harrison, J., Patel, E., Riman, K., & Martsolf, G. (2019). Journal of Nursing Regulation, 10(2), 55-59. 10.1016/S2155-8256(19)30116-4

The Occupational Health of Nurses in the Economic Community of West African States: A Review of the Literature

Ridge, L. J., Dickson, V. V., & Stimpfel, A. W. (2019). Workplace Health and Safety, 67(11), 554-564. 10.1177/2165079919859383
Abstract
Abstract
Nurses provide the majority of health care in sub-Saharan Africa, which has high rates of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This systematic review used PRISMA methodology to synthesize the literature published between January 2008 and December 2018 examining the occupational health of nurses practicing in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The United States’ National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Hierarchy of Controls is used to frame the findings. This research was mostly conducted in Nigeria and Ghana and focused on administrative controls. Nurses practicing in ECOWAS are at high risk of acquiring a bloodborne illness due to inadequate engineering and administrative controls, as well as limited access to personal protective equipment (PPE). These findings indicate interventions to improve these controls would likely lower the occupational risks faced by nurses practicing in ECOWAS. Research in more countries in ECOWAS would likely find differences in occupational health practices in Nigeria and Ghana, which are relatively wealthy, and other countries in the region. This literature showed nurses practicing in ECOWAS did not have adequate protection from biological hazards. Regional health groups, such as the West African Health Organization, should commit to improving occupational health practice. Needle recapping and double gloving must be discontinued, and PPE must be made more widely available in ECOWAS. Occupational health professionals in the region should advocate for better distribution of PPE and consider offering trainings on these behaviors.

Working across Generations to Boost Staff Nurse Retention

Stimpfel, A. W., & Dickson, V. V. (2019). Western Journal of Nursing Research, 42(6), 395-396. 10.1177/0193945919893319

The association between nurse shift patterns and nurse-nurse and nurse-physician collaboration in acute care hospital units

Ma, C., & Stimpfel, A. W. (2018). Journal of Nursing Administration, 48(6), 335-341. 10.1097/NNA.0000000000000624
Abstract
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the impact of nurse shift patterns on nurses' collaboration with nurses and physicians in US acute care hospital units. BACKGROUND Collaboration between nurses and other healthcare providers is critical for ensuring quality patient care. Nurses perform collaboration during their shift work; thus, nurse shift patterns may influence collaboration. However, there is a dearth of empirical evidence of the relationship between nurse shift patterns and collaboration of nurses with other healthcare providers. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study using data from 957 units in 168 acute care hospitals. Measures of collaboration include nurse-nurse collaboration and nurse-physician collaboration. Measures of shift patterns included shift length and overtime. Multilevel linear regressions were conducted at the unit level, controlling unit and hospital characteristics. RESULTS Overtime (more nurses working overtime or longer overtime hours) was associated with lower collaboration at the unit level; however, shift length was not. CONCLUSIONS Working overtime may negatively influence nurses' collaboration with other healthcare providers.

Beliefs and perceptions of mentorship among nursing faculty and traditional and accelerated undergraduate nursing students

Navarra, A. M., Stimpfel, A. W., Rodriguez, K., Lim, F., Nelson, N., & Slater, L. Z. (2018). Nurse Education Today, 61, 20-24. 10.1016/j.nedt.2017.10.009
Abstract
Abstract
Background In order to meet the demands of a dynamic and complex health care landscape, nursing education must develop and implement programming to produce a highly educated nursing workforce. Interprofessional honors education in nursing with targeted mentorship is one such model. Purpose To describe undergraduate nursing student and faculty perceptions and beliefs of mentorship in the context of interprofessional honors education, and compare and contrast the perceptions and beliefs about mentorship in interprofessional honors education between undergraduate nursing students and faculty. Methods The study used a cross-sectional, descriptive design. Data were collected at an urban university in the northeast US, using a researcher-developed electronic survey. The sample included 24 full-time nursing faculty, and 142 undergraduate nursing students. Results Perceptions and beliefs regarding mentorship in the context of interprofessional honors education were similar for faculty and students, with both ranking mentorship among the most important components of a successful honors program. Conclusions Honors education with a dedicated mentorship component may be implemented to improve the undergraduate education experience, facilitate advanced degree attainment, and develop future nursing leaders.