Tochi O Ubani
Berkshire Community College, USA
Title: Redefining Collaboration Among Clinicians: To Bridge Intra-and Inter-Professional Chasms
Biography
Biography: Tochi O Ubani
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: New healthcare delivery paradigm now focused on cost savings and quality-based health outcomes would require that nurses play central roles in patient care but there is lack of synergy in the use of nursing evidence-based protocols to complement medical protocols.
Methodology: A mixed methods approach of data collection and analysis in surveys, structured interviews, and open discussion forums explored clinical attitudes on the use of nursing evidence-based protocols (EBP) among a convenience sample of 50 nurses, 12 physicians and, 3 administrators. Nurse-physician Communication Tools (NPCT) generated responses from participants. Concepts from the Trans-theoretical Model of Behavior Change (TMM) provided guidelines for implementing provider interaction at different stages of the project.
Findings: Effective communication among clinicians enhances the use of nursing EBPs. Nurse-physician collaboration influenced the use of nursing EBPs through meaningful interactions and shared experiences and NPCT provided a mechanism for practice changes needed to enhance clinical collaboration and the use of nursing EBPs. Implications for practice indicate the use of NPCT to enhance nurse-physician collaboration to bridge gaps in practice and reduce healthcare costs. Future studies on these specific relationships including the lack of nurse-physician communication mechanisms and limited use of nursing EBPs in clinical settings is recommended to understand the other effects of human interactions, emotions, and personal experiences.
Conclusion: Nursing EBPs implemented in this study fostered interdisciplinary learning and clinical collaboration when applied in a meaningful interactive bonding environment using the NPCT.
