Acceptability of motivational interviewing among hemodialysis clinic staff: a pilot study

This pilot study investigated the acceptability of motivational interviewing among a group of dialysis clinic staff.

A non-experimental, posttest-only design was used for this pilot study.

Dialysis clinic staff (N = 8) were recruited from a Midwestern non-profit, freestanding hemodialysis clinic.

Staff received three three-hour training sessions in motivational interviewing and monthly individual coaching sessions with a motivational interviewing expert for three months. Staff then completed anonymous questionnaires and participated in a focus group discussion.

Staff reported liking the motivational interviewing skills they learned and finding them useful; however, staff reported disagreement with statements indicating they used motivational interviewing skills effectively on a regular basis, that their work environments were supportive of motivational interviewing, and that motivational interviewing was consistent with their natural patient care approach.

Results indicate that staff are receptive to motivational interviewing skills, and with sufficient training and feedback to enhance confidence, dialysis staff will develop further motivational interviewing competence and comfort for long-term use.