Knowledge mobilization in critical care and the evolving communication role of nurses

BACKGROUND

The importance of appropriate communication skills within a health care setting rests upon the need for effective information sharing. When successful, this provides a supportive working environment for staff and has a positive impact on patient care and outcomes.

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to explore how knowledge/evidence is acquired, shared, and applied in the Critical Care (CC) environment for staff and patients/family members.

STUDY DESIGN

A qualitative approach was used, consisting of semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Data analysis was conducted using an iterative thematic approach.

RESULTS

Data collected prior to the COVID-19 pandemic from United Kingdom (UK) critical care workers (N = 46), patients, and family members (N = 21) identified four communication roles performed by the nursing staff: team member; diplomat; translator and friend.

CONCLUSIONS

It was evident that without suitable training and support, the stresses and demands placed upon the nurses could lead to disenfranchisement and burnout.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

These findings are relevant and timely given the impact of the pandemic, highlighting the need for accessible and alternate communication strategies to support nurses by reducing stress, moral distress and increasing psychological safety. Improved communication can provide tailored information for staff and patients/family improving the CC experience for all.

A clinical librarian in a hospital critical care unit may generate a positive return on investment

BACKGROUND

Timely information provided by clinical librarians can contribute to outcomes such as improved patient care and time savings for hospital staff. What is unknown is the return on investment (ROI) of a clinical librarian on a critical care unit.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the ROI, from the employer perspective, of placing a clinical librarian in a critical care unit in a large UK acute hospital.

METHODS

Using a mixed methods approach, ROI was estimated by comparing the total costs with the total monetised benefits of implementing the clinical librarian intervention. Total costs included salary and equipment costs. Total monetised benefits included time saving for hospital staff, support for professional development and improved patient care.

RESULTS

When total monetised benefits were compared with total costs, the 15-month clinical librarian intervention generated a positive ROI of £1.18-£3.03 for every £1 invested.

DISCUSSION

Using outcome measures derived from previous research, this novel study generated promising results indicative for commissioners seeking to improve patient care and deliver value for money. To improve generalisability, multisite studies using standardised ROI tools are recommended.

CONCLUSION

Employing a clinical librarian in a critical care unit can generate a positive ROI.