Enhancing Interprofessional Collaboration in the Intensive Care Unit: Reviewing Influential Factors Impacting Nurse-Physician Dynamics

Abstract

Abstract Background: In the intensive care unit, interprofessional collaboration is essential due to the rising complexity of patient cases and the continuous evolution of healthcare. Research suggests that the collaboration between nurses and physicians in the ICU enhances team dynamics and optimises patient-centred care. Previous research also highlights the importance of continuously investigating the factors influencing this collaboration, given the increasing volume of patients and complexity in Norwegian hospitals. Thus, further exploration is needed to better understand interprofessional collaboration dynamics in this context. Aim: To review the factors influencing interprofessional collaboration dynamics within the ICU, as described in the literature, focusing on understanding nurse-physician dynamics. By uncovering these factors, this thesis sought to offer valuable insights into how positive interprofessional collaboration could enhance the ICU environment. Methods: The authors adopted a rapid review methodology to synthesise evidence efficiently. The thesis reviewed 11 articles comprising qualitative, mixed-method, and cross-sectional studies to enhance the depth of the analysis. The data material was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The findings that emerged from the literature revealed three themes concerning interprofessional dynamics within the intensive care unit setting: (1) A culture of mutual respect, (2) Acknowledging each other’s competence, and (3) Acknowledging interprofessional team dynamics. The findings revealed that physicians perceive the intensive care unit team as familial, stressing the significance of personal relationships. Furthermore, nurses often felt undervalued, underscoring the need for mutual trust and respect. The literature emphasises that positive collaboration fosters effective communication, with simulation studies highlighting the importance of leadership. It was also stressed that the hospital administration should actively promote relationship-building opportunities, recognising the correlation between job satisfaction and a healthy work environment. Conclusion: Mutual respect among nurses and physicians is central to effective collaboration within the intensive care unit. The hospital administration and individual healthcare professionals must collaboratively take initiatives, which include clear leadership, team building efforts and psychological safety. These elements are essential for fostering mutual trust and respect. Importantly, all identified enablers for improving interprofessional collaboration are accessible and arguably cost-effective, offering practical solutions for enhancing organisational success and patient-centred care within the intensive care unit.

Abstract Background: In the intensive care unit, interprofessional collaboration is essential due to the rising complexity of patient cases and the continuous evolution of healthcare. Research suggests that the collaboration between nurses and physicians in the ICU enhances team dynamics and optimises patient-centred care. Previous research also highlights the importance of continuously investigating the factors influencing this collaboration, given the increasing volume of patients and complexity in Norwegian hospitals. Thus, further exploration is needed to better understand interprofessional collaboration dynamics in this context. Aim: To review the factors influencing interprofessional collaboration dynamics within the ICU, as described in the literature, focusing on understanding nurse-physician dynamics. By uncovering these factors, this thesis sought to offer valuable insights into how positive interprofessional collaboration could enhance the ICU environment. Methods: The authors adopted a rapid review methodology to synthesise evidence efficiently. The thesis reviewed 11 articles comprising qualitative, mixed-method, and cross-sectional studies to enhance the depth of the analysis. The data material was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The findings that emerged from the literature revealed three themes concerning interprofessional dynamics within the intensive care unit setting: (1) A culture of mutual respect, (2) Acknowledging each other’s competence, and (3) Acknowledging interprofessional team dynamics. The findings revealed that physicians perceive the intensive care unit team as familial, stressing the significance of personal relationships. Furthermore, nurses often felt undervalued, underscoring the need for mutual trust and respect. The literature emphasises that positive collaboration fosters effective communication, with simulation studies highlighting the importance of leadership. It was also stressed that the hospital administration should actively promote relationship-building opportunities, recognising the correlation between job satisfaction and a healthy work environment. Conclusion: Mutual respect among nurses and physicians is central to effective collaboration within the intensive care unit. The hospital administration and individual healthcare professionals must collaboratively take initiatives, which include clear leadership, team building efforts and psychological safety. These elements are essential for fostering mutual trust and respect. Importantly, all identified enablers for improving interprofessional collaboration are accessible and arguably cost-effective, offering practical solutions for enhancing organisational success and patient-centred care within the intensive care unit.