Enabling interprofessional collaboration in delirium management / Interprofessionelle Zusammenarbeit im Delir-Management gestalten

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is dependent on different expectations and communication styles. IPC is a meaningful approach to accomplish treatment goals, especially in patients with delirium. Delirium affects approximately 50 % of patients older than 65 years in acute care settings. The constant attention and effort needed to care for patients suffering from delirium is challenging and cannot be provided by one profession alone. Instead, there is a need for IPC. Aim This study aims to analyse the structure of IPC in the treatment of patients suffering from delirium. Method Data was collected by conducting three group interviews and six individual interviews with members of different professions in an acute care hospital, and analysed by Charmaz's (2014) grounded theory approach. Results A model called enabling IPC in delirium management was developed. This model shows how mutual respect and appreciation, being in dialog and dealing with challenges in IPC interact with each other and also affect each other. Mutual respect and appreciation are common baseline values that have a pivotal effect on the dialog between professions and the management of IPC challenges. Being in dialog and dealing with challenges in IPC are essential values for enabling IPC, as well as mutual respect and appreciation. Conclusion Mutual respect and appreciation is fundamental for enabling IPC in the treatment of patients suffering from delirium. Interprofessional education, structured interprofessional care conferences and standardised communication can offer opportunities to foster mutual respect and appreciation which, in turn enable IPC.