Teamwork Overview

1. Teamwork Overview

2. Definition of Teamwork • teamwork is the interaction or relationship of two or more health professionals who work interdependently to provide care for patients • The members of the team • are mutually dependent • see themselves as working collaboratively for patient-centered care • benefit from working collaboratively to provide patient care • share information that may lead to shared decision-making • know when teamwork should be used to optimize patient-centered care.

3. When is teamwork necessary in a healthcare setting? • When you cannot accomplish the goal alone • When you will have an impact on someone else’s work • When there is a need for co-ordination • When it can reduce duplication • When it will have a positive impact on the care experience • When it will increase the quality of care and patient safety • When it will integrate services

4. Challenges within a teamwork environment • Overbearing group member (bullying) • Group members that will not do their share of work • Profession bashing within the team • Team member that creates a lot of stress for the team • Power struggles • Lack of trust and mutual respect • Resistance to change • Stalled change due to organizational rules and regulations • Fear of repercussions

5. How to overcome challenges within a teamwork environment • Create a supportive environment • Learn effective ways to communicate and receive feedback • Come to a common understanding of the teams mission and the roles of those involved • Being open to both talking and listening • Storytelling can also promote effective communication