Observations of health-care professionals sharing and contributing responsibility in paediatric caring situations

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Healthcare
• Communication in Medicine
• Health Professional Education

Background:

• Effective information exchange between healthcare professionals and pediatric patients/guardians is crucial for quality care.
• Understanding the nuances of these interactions can improve patient outcomes and professional practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and conceptualize health care professionals' information exchanges with minors and/or their parents/guardians in pediatric settings.
• To explore the core concerns and related categories influencing these communication dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory and constant comparative analysis were employed.
• Data collection involved participant observation, medical record review, and follow-up interviews.
• The study was conducted in three university hospital pediatric outpatient units with 15 participating health care professionals.

Main Results:

• The core category identified was 'sharing and contributing responsibility'.
• Six interrelated categories emerged: interchanging knowledge, relationship-creating chat, calculated confirming, encouraging, dichotomous talking, and situation-related effects.
• The study highlighted the complex interaction between healthcare professionals and pediatric patients/families.

Conclusions:

• Findings provide insight into the elements of information exchange in pediatric care settings.
• The research can inform the development of improved communication strategies for healthcare professionals.
• Enhanced communication skills can lead to better patient care and professional development.