Pharmacists contribute their expertise in medication management, providing precise instructions for patient safety. Meanwhile, physical therapists, dietitians, and social workers work together to create a multidisciplinary strategy, ensuring that patient education is comprehensive and covers all aspects of patient care. The convergence of these stakeholders, each with unique skills and insights, is critical for developing a comprehensive educational framework (Al-Kalaldeh et al., 2020).
The scenario at the cardiac unit highlights the urgent need for better patient education to improve safety and outcomes. A focused quality improvement initiative is essential to address communication barriers, standardize educational materials, use digital tools, and empower nurses to take a leading role in patient education. By implementing evidence-based practices such as the teach-back method and promoting collaboration with all stakeholders, the unit can expect to reduce readmissions, improve medication adherence, and increase patient satisfaction (Abdulla et al., 2022). This comprehensive strategy aims to mitigate current risks and set a benchmark for patient-centered care that can inspire improvements across the healthcare system.
Abdulla, N. M., Naqi, R. J., & Jassim, G. A. (2022). Barriers to nurse-patient communication in primary healthcare centers in Bahrain: Patient perspective. International Journal of Nursing Sciences, 9(2), 230–235. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnss.2022.03.006
Al-Kalaldeh, M., Amro, N., Qtait, M., & Alwawi, A. (2020). Barriers to effective nurse-patient communication in the emergency department. Emergency nurse. Journal of the RCN Accident and Emergency Nursing Association, 28(3), 29–35. https://doi.org/10.7748/en.2020.e1969
Appiah, E. O., Oti-Boadi, E., Ani-Amponsah, M., Mawusi, D. G., Awuah, D. B., Menlah, A., & Ofori-Appiah, C. (2023). Barriers to nurses’ therapeutic communication practices in a district hospital in Ghana. BMC Nursing, 22(1), 35. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-023-01191-2