Competency and Cultural Similarity: Underlying Factors of an Effective Interprofessional Communication in the Emergency Ward: A Qualitative Study

Despite its importance, interprofessional communication in emergency wards seems unfavorable. Identifying the underlying factors of an effective interprofessional communication can help care providers better design appropriate interventions. This study was designed to explore factors that influence interprofessional communication in the emergency wards.

A qualitative study was conducted by means of semi-structured interviews with 22 participants with a variety of jobs, positions, ages, genders, and work experiences. Data analysis was performed with content analysis method with inductive approach.

Data analysis revealed 4 categories of underlying effective factors of interprofessional communication in the emergency ward; knowledge and skill, communication skills, the positive effect of religion on communication, similar demographic characteristics. These 4 categories revealed the 2 main themes of competency and cultural similarity.

This study provided a better understanding of underlying factors in interprofessional communication in the emergency ward. Improving the knowledge and skills of health providers in the emergency ward, and employing personnel with common culture and demographic variables can improve interprofessional communication in the emergency ward. Interprofessional communication has a major role in the outcome of patient care and job satisfaction of staff; thus, it is of great importance.