How to prevent ineffective communication

Inappropriate communication among physicians and other hospital staff can take many forms—from verbal outbursts and threats to failing to complete medical records or notes in a timely fashion. Whether overt or subtle, these behaviors undermine team interactions, creating an uncomfortable, nonproductive work environment. Such an environment can lead to medical errors, poor patient satisfaction, and gaps in staffing. In September 2016, The Joint Commission reissued a Sentinel Event Alert stating that “behaviors that undermine a culture of safety” should not be tolerated.

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