Medical residents shadow nurses to improve communication

In a recent study published in the June issue of the Journal of Nursing Administration, researchers implemented a physician–nurse shadowing program to improve interprofessional communication. First-year residents in the study shadowed nurses for a four-hour shift, participating in nursing workflow and tasks. Before and after the shift, participants completed a Likert-scale questionnaire and a qualitative survey. Results showed confidence in communication increased by 29% for residents and 34% for nurses. The authors said the program “provided an environment for mutual learning and interdisciplinary relationship-building.”