Improving communication among healthcare workers: a controlled study

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to test the effects on aspects of workplace communication relevant to teamwork, and social support, in hospital units, of a dialog training (DT) intervention based on knowledge of key quality aspects related to interpersonal work-related communication among healthcare workers.

Design/methodology/approach

A cluster randomized controlled study conducted among approximately 300 Swedish healthcare workers employed at ten hospital units. Workplace communication was measured in the form of participative safety, trust/openness, and social support. Effects were tested at three-month and six-month follow-ups. Repeated measurements were made.

Findings

The results indicated that DT had a positive influence on participative safety and social support from managers. A positive tendency was observed for trust/openness.

Originality/value

Developing and practicing good staff communication in hospital units is an important area for interventions designed to improve job performance and health.

Citation

Eklof, M. and Ahlborg Jr, G. (2016), "Improving communication among healthcare workers: a controlled study", Journal of Workplace Learning, Vol. 28 No. 2, pp. 81-96. https://doi.org/10.1108/JWL-06-2015-0050