Nurses’ Perception of Interprofessional Collaboration in Hospitals in the Maldives

Abstract

Introduction: The concept of interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is widely used in healthcare organizations, where patients are treated. However, there is no definite terminology that can explain the term IPC. The aim of this research is to understand nurses’ perception of IPC in Hospitals in the Maldives. Methods: A cross -sectional survey was conducted among 292 nurses from two hospitals followed by Focus Group Discussions with 5 nurses from each hospital. The instrument tool used for the survey was “conceptualization of interdisciplinary collaboration” by D’Amour which was adapted for this study with 9 items and an expert validated open ended questionnaire. Results: The findings from the study shows positive responses for IPC1-Disciplinary groups do exchange information 58.65% (n=171), IPC2- Share clinical decision making 60.3% (n=176), IPC3-Patient data are collectively reviewed 62.7% (n=183), IPC4- Supports each other in the multidisciplinary team 59.2% (n=173), IPC5 highest rate of positive response was for “IPC 6- conflict resolution which was 63.7% (n=186), IPC7- common care plan 63.0% (n=184), IPC8- Data collected at one point is shared with the team 57.5% (n=168) and the lowest was for “IPC 9- level of collaboration -56.8% (n=166) respectively. Conclusion: This study revealed that importance should be given to promoting a culture of interprofessional collaboration in the hospitals of Maldives. Therefore, there is a need to address this and implement IPC with respect to all professionals, by mitigating the hierarchical differences in the healthcare system. Thus, it is crucial to educate all HCPs with regard to sustaining IPC.