WHAT WE STAND FOR
Our mission is to foster healthcare environments where communication is clear, collaboration is seamless, and patient care is paramount.
In our lab, we stand by the belief that effective teamwork and communication drive successful outcomes in healthcare. When teams are working harmoniously, and when communication flows with clarity and precision, the results are evident: enhanced patient care, empowered clinicians who excel in their roles, and institutions that run smoothly and effectively. Conversely, when these critical elements are compromised, such as when clinicians act disruptively, the repercussions are widespread. The quality of patient care can suffer, thereby putting patients in jeopardy, clinician well-being is often compromised, and institutional efficiency and effectiveness can decline.
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​Much of our research has focused on interpersonal dynamics in the operating room, a setting that is stressful, with long hours, few breaks, time sensitive tasks, and high stakes. However, we recognize the importance of these elements across all healthcare environments. To this end, we explore team dynamics, communication, and ways to address disruptive behaviors in various high-stress healthcare settings.
Research Areas
Disruptive Behaviors
Exploring the prevalence, causes and effects of disruptive behaviors in high stress healthcare settings, including their impact on patient safety and healthcare provider wellbeing.
Team Dynamics
Investigating how team composition and interpersonal relationships impact the efficacy of medical procedures.
Communication Patterns
Examining communication flow within the healthcare settings to identify areas for enhancement.
Policy and Practice
Assessing how institutional policies and standard practices influence conduct and outcomes in healthcare settings.
Research Modalities
In our view, the best way to understand interpersonal dynamics in healthcare is to use a multi-faceted approach that employs a variety of empirical and conceptual methods:
Survey Research
We use questionnaires and other survey tools to collect information about the attitudes, experiences, perceptions, and behaviors of medical professionals.
Direct Observation
We conduct in-situ observations within healthcare settings to study how team members communicate and behave.
Conceptual Analysis
We engage in theoretical analysis to help us understand the meaning and significance of important concepts like “disruptive behavior” and “teamwork”.
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Policy Analysis
We examine existing policies and guidelines to identify their potential impact on behaviors in the healthcare setting, and offer suggestions for evidence-based improvements.