The strategies of forming interprofessional teams in healthcare aim to raise the sense of reliability, responsibility, and self-confidence of each individual worker. Studies prove that establishing roles and areas of responsibility «make individuals feel secure in their work, set limits and avoid professional generalization» (Skyberg & Innvaer, 2020, p. 2). In other words, specific, in-depth knowledge of each side of a patient’s case reduces the possibility of medical errors and ensures effective treatment. One example of my experience was working with an interprofessional team that included a primary physician, a psychologist, and a bedside nurse. I have witnessed the collaboration between two different doctors: the patient had declined to take medication that the physician prescribed, but after several therapeutic sessions with the psychologist, he was able to develop adherence to his treatment. The professionals separated their responsibilities and successfully reached an effective care method.
The other crucial point in professional interactions, specifically in medical institutions, is encouraging speaking-up behavior. Recognizing risky or deficient actions on time can eliminate various human errors in medical practice. The way to achieve it is to create a safe environment for interaction between professionals, excluding the fear of authorities. I had experienced the need to speak up for a patient when there was a possibility of an allergic reaction to a certain substance. However, I did not have enough courage to address this issue because my suggestions lacked evidence. Also, if I were wrong about the patient’s allergies, I would be condemned by his primary physician. Presumably, a team of doctors or nurses would be helpful in resolving this case, as they would have diverse expertise, and there would be safer opportunities to share it via equal communication.
Reference
Skyberg, H. L., & Innvaer, S. (2020) Dynamics of interprofessional teamwork: Why three logics are better than one. Social Science & Medicine, 265. Web.