Related Experiment Videos
An Interprofessional Communication Training Program to Improve Nurses' Ability to Communicate With Stroke Patients
Charlene H Chu1,2, Riva Sorin-Peters3, Souraya Sidani4
1Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Interprofessional communication training improved nurses' attitudes and knowledge for caring for stroke patients with communication disorders. While initial improvements in communication impairment were not sustained, nurses reported increased confidence and reduced frustration.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Education
- Nursing Practice
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Effective communication is crucial for stroke rehabilitation.
- Nurses require specialized training to manage communication disorders in stroke patients.
- Interprofessional collaboration enhances patient care outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of an Interprofessional (IP) Communication Training Program on nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
- To improve nurses' communication skills with stroke rehabilitation inpatients experiencing communication disorders.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental longitudinal study design was employed.
- The program included a full-day workshop, booster sessions, and speech-language pathologist support.
- Data were collected using the Communication Impairment Questionnaire and Providers Interactional Comfort Survey at baseline, 3 months, and 1 year post-intervention.
Main Results:
- Forty-six nurses participated in the study.
- Significant improvements were observed in nurses' attitudes and knowledge post-intervention, sustained at 1-year follow-up.
- Focus groups revealed high program acceptability, increased nurse confidence, and reduced frustration.
Conclusions:
- The IP Communication Training Program effectively enhanced nurses' attitudes and knowledge regarding communication strategies for stroke patients.
- Interprofessional workshops and speech-language pathologist support are beneficial for nurses caring for patients with communication disorders.
- The training positively impacts nurses' confidence and ability to manage communication challenges in stroke rehabilitation.