A qualitative co-design-based approach to identify sources of distress and develop well-being strategies for cardiovascular nurses, allied health professionals, and physicians

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Clinician distress is a multidimensional condition that includes burnout, decreased meaning in work, severe fatigue, poor work–life integration, reduced quality of life, and suicidal ideation. It has negatives impact on patients, providers, and healthcare systems. In this three-phase qualitative study, we identified workplace factors that drive clinician distress and co-developed intervention strategies with inter-professional cardiovascular clinicians to decrease their distress within a Canadian quaternary hospital network. Methods: Between October and May 2022, we invited nurses, allied health professionals, and physicians to participate in a multi-phase qualitative and co-design approach. Phases 1 and 2 included individual interviews and focus groups to identify workplace factors contributing to distress. Phase 3 involved co-design workshops that brought together inter-professional clinicians to develop strategies addressing drivers of distress identified. Qualitative information was analyzed using deductive and inductive processes. Results: Fifty-two clinicians (24 nurses, 11 allied health professionals, and 17 physicians) participated. Insights from Phases 1 and 2 identified five key drivers of distress: inter-professional support, joy in work, unsustainable workloads, learning and professional growth, and transparent leadership communication. Phase 3 co-design workshops yielded four potential strategies to mitigate clinician distress in the workplace including re-designing daily safety huddles, formalizing a nursing mentorship program, creating a value-add program newsletter, and implementing an employee experience platform. Conclusion: This study increases our understanding on workplace factors that contribute to clinician distress, as shared by inter-professional clinicians specializing in cardiovascular care. Healthcare organizations can develop effective interventions to mitigate clinician distress by actively engaging clinicians in collaboratively designing tailored, practical strategies that directly address these challenges.