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Communication breakdowns during emergencies threaten patient safety. In nursing homes (NHs) vulnerable residents may experience emergencies at any time. Concerns over clinical complexity and diverse communication styles among interprofessional practitioners heighten the need for standardized methods to improve practitioners' communication skills. This study explores communication structures among 32 practitioners in four NHs using in-depth interviews following a formalized Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation (SBAR) framework. Network analysis, a deductive approach to qualitative data analysis, and case analysis were performed for a comprehensive understanding of interprofessional communication in 48 emergency cases identified during interviews. Findings identified the flow of information, messaging, and management strategies that were expected of receivers during interprofessional communication. These results could help develop training regimens or guidelines to improve cooperative interprofessional communication, allowing practitioners to provide appropriate emergency care for NH residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interprofessional, simulation based, acute care course for ward health care providers was developed and implemented with the objectives of teaching identification of deteriorating patients, practicing crisis resource management and basic life support skills, and using the SBAR (Situation Background Assessment Recommendation) communication tool. Thirty-eight physicians and 51 nurses attended the four separate courses. Nine questions on a 5-point Likert scale and two open-ended questions revealed that over 95% of respondents strongly agreed/agreed that facilitators encouraged active participation, lectures were presented in an interesting manner, and that simulations were useful for practical skills and for practicing communication. Open-ended questions revealed that participants felt more confident, understood the importance of communication, roles, teamwork and valued the day. Based on this evaluation, the program was regarded as feasible and acceptable to all health care providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]