Perceptions Of Interprofessional Communication: Impact On Patient Care, Occupational Stress, And Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Poor interprofessional communication has been linked to decreased quality of patient care and increased numbers of medical errors. Increased occupational stress due to lack of effective interprofessional communication can lead to poor job satisfaction and burnout. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to interprofessional communication as perceived by radiologic technologists. In particular, how did demographic data influence these perceptions? The research was conducted during June of 2009. The population for this survey consisted of registered radiologic technologists employed at hospitals in Northeast Tennessee. A locally developed survey questionnaire covering the subject of interprofessional communication was distributed to a cluster sample directly involved in patient care. Participants indicated that interprofessional communication effects their occupational stress and job satisfaction in addition to the quality of patient care. This analysis revealed that radiographers experienced the most difficulty communicating with nurses.