Redefining collaboration among clinicians: To bridge intra and inter-professional chasms

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Tochi O Ubani

Berkshire Community College, USA

: J Nurs Patient Care

Abstract

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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.

Biography

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Ubani is the founder/CEO of Nursedrcomications.com, an online platform, and provider of networking services on issues of clinical practices, health policies, and nursing education. He writes, publishes, lectures, and consults on issues related to outcome-based, patient-centered clinical practices. He advocates for holistic approaches to healthcare management, health policy, and innovative healthcare delivery systems to support diversity in healthcare leadership. His scholarship focuses on collaborative healthcare practices among clinicians and the establishment of health system cultures that reflect the diversity of populations. To promote interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centeredness, he champions what he calls the "right care" for the client. He conducts education sessions, online seminars/ workshops and direct classroom teaching to provoke critical thinking among clinicians in the areas of interdisciplinary collaboration, and best practice models for patient-centered caring.

E-mail: Dr_toubani@nursedrcommunications.com