The physician-nurse collaboration in truth disclosure: from nurses' perspective

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Healthcare Collaboration
• Patient Communication

Background:

• Physician-nurse collaboration is vital in healthcare.
• Limited research exists on physician-nurse collaboration specifically in truth disclosure.
• Understanding this dynamic is crucial for effective patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the status of physician-nurse collaboration in truth disclosure from the nurses' perspective.
• To identify factors influencing physician-nurse collaboration in truth disclosure.
• To explore perceived difficulties in truth disclosure practices.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 287 Chinese nurses.
• The Nurse-Physician Collaboration Scale assessed collaboration in truth disclosure.
• Regression analyses identified factors associated with collaboration.

Main Results:

• Most nurses (73.1-81%) reported positive collaboration in truth disclosure.
• Average collaboration score was 3.98 ± 0.72.
• Nurse seniority and frequency of truth disclosure were significant factors (p < 0.001).
• Fear of patients' negative emotions or suicide attempts was the primary barrier.

Conclusions:

• Nurses generally perceive positive collaboration with physicians in truth disclosure.
• Barriers such as fear of patient reactions hinder effective truth-telling collaboration.
• Further research is needed to develop interventions promoting nurse-physician cooperation in truth disclosure.