Researchers in Canada examined how professionals other than doctors can be involved in shared decision-making about life-prolonging care. Thirty-seven professionals were interviewed, comprising nurses, dieticians, occupational therapists, orderlies, pastoral workers, doctors, physiotherapists, respiratory therapists and social workers. All of these professionals were involved to some extent in communicating with patients about their goals of care. Two paper forms to support documenting patient care goals were developed. The researchers concluded that interprofessional collaboration can help facilitate patient participation in decisions about care.
Reference: Sohi J, et al. Improving health care professionals’ collaboration to facilitate patient participation in decisions regarding life-prolonging care: An action research project. Journal of Interprofessional Care. 2015
