Value of Schwartz Rounds in promoting the emotional well-being of healthcare workers: a qualitative study

Abstract

ObjectivesSchwartz Rounds are forums that enable healthcare staff to reflect on emotional and social dimensions of their work. In this study, we aimed to explore the experiences of Schwartz Rounds on emotional aspects of care and practice within a clinical environment.DesignUsing qualitative methods, we interviewed participants individually and in focus groups. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed by thematic analysis.SettingThe study was based at a public health service Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest, most ethnically diverse population.ParticipantsParticipants were panellists who took part in successive Schwartz Rounds over a 10-month period. There were 17 participants with a range of experience (1–30 years) and occupations including clinical, allied, technical and administrative staff from medical specialties of plastic surgery, pain services, emergency medicine, intensive care, organ donation services, COVID-19 response and palliative care services.ResultsThree themes were identified: the need for emotional processing, valuing guided reflection and realising our humanity. The third theme ‘realising our humanity’ comprised altruism, connection and compassion. Schwartz Rounds provided staff with clear benefits: emotionally resonant experiences within an environment of psychological safety and connection to the wider organisation. The daunting nature of emotional disclosure was mitigated by a supportive audience.ConclusionThere is an organisational imperative to ensure that staff have opportunities to process intense emotions associated with healthcare work. Schwartz Rounds are one means to attend to the emotional welfare of healthcare staff, enabling them to gain different perspectives in the care of their patients and colleagues within system constraints.