Clinical Question of Inquiry: How does the implementation of bedside interdisciplinary rounds impact patient-provider communication and patient satisfaction in hospital settings?

Effective communication and patient satisfaction are critical components of high-quality healthcare. In hospital settings, patients often interact with multiple healthcare professionals from various disciplines, which can lead to fragmented communication and confusion. Bedside interdisciplinary rounds (IDRs) are an evidence-based strategy designed to address these issues by bringing the healthcare team together at the patient’s bedside to discuss care plans collaboratively. This approach not only fosters clearer communication among providers but also directly involves the patient and their family in the care process. The central focus of this clinical question is to evaluate how the structured implementation of bedside IDRs affects two key outcomes: patient-provider communication and patient satisfaction.

EBP Model Best Fit:
The most suitable evidence-based practice (EBP) model for guiding this project is the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice to Promote Quality Care. This model is well-suited for healthcare settings looking to improve clinical practices based on research evidence. It begins by identifying a problem or a trigger, such as low patient satisfaction scores or communication breakdowns, and then leads through a structured process of assembling a team, reviewing literature, piloting the intervention, and evaluating outcomes.

The Iowa Model’s strength lies in its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and organizational readiness—two vital aspects when introducing bedside IDRs. Because the intervention involves physicians, nurses, case managers, and other team members, the Iowa Model supports engaging all stakeholders from the outset. Furthermore, its focus on evaluating change through measurable outcomes such as patient satisfaction surveys and communication audits aligns directly with the clinical question being posed.

Potential Barriers:
Implementing bedside interdisciplinary rounds comes with several anticipated challenges. One of the most common barriers is interprofessional coordination. Hospital units are often fast-paced and staffed by professionals working different shifts with varying responsibilities. Coordinating the availability of all disciplines to participate in rounds can be difficult without strong leadership and logistical planning.

Resistance to change is another significant barrier. Staff members may feel skeptical about the value of bedside rounds or view them as time-consuming. Without proper education and demonstration of benefits, this resistance can hinder implementation efforts. Additionally, time constraints in a busy clinical environment may cause providers to feel that bedside IDRs interfere with their daily workflow, especially if rounds are not efficiently structured.

Training needs also play a crucial role. Effective IDRs require good communication skills, respect among disciplines, and awareness of how to engage patients appropriately. Staff may need guidance on how to facilitate discussions without overwhelming the patient or sharing sensitive information publicly.

Finally, patient comfort and privacy must be considered. Some patients may feel uncomfortable discussing their care in front of a group or may have concerns about confidentiality.

To overcome these barriers, leadership support, staff education, clear protocols, and pilot testing are essential. Engaging patients and families in the design of bedside rounds can also help ensure the approach is respectful, inclusive, and ultimately effective in enhancing both communication and satisfaction.