Physician Practices Promoting Effective Communication with Nurses: A Qualitative Study

Although effective physician-nurse communication has been associated with improved healthcare quality and patient safety outcomes, few studies have explored physician practices that foster high-quality communication. In this study, we aimed to identify physician behaviors that promote effective communication with bedside nurses in the inpatient setting. Using purposeful sampling, we recruited physicians who were identified as excellent communicators by bedside nurses to participate in semi-structured interviews exploring workflows, communication methods, and attitudes toward interprofessional collaboration. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Interviews identified that physicians prioritized communication with bedside nurses in their daily workflows and employed specific techniques to enhance communication quality. Three key themes emerged: (1) consistent daily communication workflows; (2) intentional communication; and (3) deliberate relationship-building. Results highlight opportunities to improve communication through physician- and system-level interventions to integrate structured communication practices into daily workflows and promote relationship-building between physicians and nurses.