Interprofessional Communication Flashcards
Why is interprofessional communication important?
On average, 5.5 contacts with a healthcare professional (HCP) / hour, of which 3.5 different individuals / hour
Requires good transfer of info between the different HCPs - as there are multiple sources of error and info transferred needs to stay accurate
HCPs are accountable for the care of the patient - mistakes can be fatal
Where does interprofessional communication occur?
Everywhere
Ward - obs, ward rounds, pharmacists, procedures, medications, handovers, reviews, instructions, messages
Between departments - referrals, requests
Between different health and non-health professionals
Between healthcare settings - verbal, ftf, telephone, written, electronic
According to the GMC, all doctors must: (for good interprofessional communication)
Communicate relevant info clearly to colleagues in your team, other services with which you work (medical and non-medical), and patients and their relatives in a way that is understandable / addressing their concerns
Not assume others on the team will do it
Check if unclear who should be communicating what
Identify poor communication links and seek to improve these
What are some challenges HCPs face with interprofessional communication?
Awareness of different roles and responsibilities of multiple HCPs
Rank dynamics and power dynamics
Language - jargon, abbreviations
Different professional perspectives
Vulnerable to human factors - e.g. dislike, distrust, conflict, tension
Ensure accurate, timely transfer of info
Fast paced, pressure environment
What are the information giving principles?
Prepare
Introduction
Explore - what do they know? Information needs
Deliver Information - logical, chunks, language
Explore understanding and thoughts
Summarise
What are some situations that require good, structured communication?
Note entry Calling for help - SBAR Handover Checklist - WHO sugical checklist Discharge Referral Clinic letter MDT Raising concerns
What is the structure of a note entry?
Patient name
Identifier: Hospital number, NHS number, DOB
Date
Time
Your name - signed and printed
Your role
Event - facts: history, info, obs, examination findings, impression plan, communication, actions, follow up
How do you call for help?
Be succinct
Structured
Make clear what your concern is and what help you require e.g. advice, physical presence, to inform
What does SBAR stand for?
Introduction - my name is… I am a 2nd year medical student on placement on X ward
Situation - succinct, punchy opening statement that imparts level of urgency
Background - describe in more detail the key elements of the patients
Assessment - explain your findings and interventions so far
Response / Recommendation - say what you need
What are the key principles of interprofessional communication skills?
Fundamental to quality healthcare delivery Respect colleagues Everyone is responsible Clarity - if unsure, clarify Accuracy Structure the info - prepare
