NURSES’ PERSPECTIVES ON INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION AND ITS IMPACT ON PATIENT CARE IN HOSPITALS

Abstract

Background: Interdisciplinary collaboration (IPC) is widely recognized as a cornerstone of high-quality healthcare delivery, contributing to improved patient outcomes, safety, and system efficiency. Nurses play a pivotal role in interdisciplinary teams due to their continuous patient contact and involvement in care coordination. This study aimed to assess nurses’ perspectives on interdisciplinary collaboration and its perceived impact on patient care outcomes in public and semi-autonomous hospitals in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan.

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, involving 256 registered nurses working in inpatient settings. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire, including a modified Nurse–Physician Collaboration Scale assessing communication, mutual respect, role clarity, shared decision-making, and coordination of care. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were performed using SPSS.

Results: The findings revealed moderate to high levels of perceived interdisciplinary collaboration, with higher mean scores for communication and mutual respect, and comparatively lower scores for shared decision-making and role clarity, indicating the presence of hierarchical barriers. Most nurses perceived IPC as having a positive impact on patient care, including improvements in quality of care, patient safety, continuity of care, and reduction of medical errors. A statistically significant association was observed between overall collaboration scores and perceived quality of care and patient safety (p < 0.05). Despite positive perceptions, challenges such as limited involvement in decision-making and role ambiguity were evident.

Conclusion: The study concludes that strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration through inter-professional education, role clarification, and inclusive decision-making processes may enhance patient outcomes and teamwork effectiveness in hospital settings. These findings provide valuable insights for healthcare policymakers and administrators seeking to improve collaborative practice in Pakistan’s healthcare system.