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Collaboration in the midst of chaos: perspectives of inpatient occupational and physical therapists during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Authors :
Smith LM
McNulty B
Scroggs E
Yorke AM
Source :
Journal of interprofessional care [J Interprof Care] 2024 Jul-Aug; Vol. 38 (4), pp. 632-641. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 May 14.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected over 700 million people globally, straining healthcare systems and highlighting the need for interprofessional collaboration. The aim of this study was to describe interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) experiences from the perspectives of occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) who were employed in a medical center both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative study, conducted from July 2020-November 2021, delved into the lived experiences of occupational and physical therapists in an inpatient setting during the pandemic through analysis of semi-structured interviews and journal entries. The pandemic prompted fear, uncertainty, and ethical dilemmas among therapists, affecting patient-centered care. Roles expanded, and teamwork challenges emerged in defining boundaries, while communication dynamics were transformed by virtual technologies. The pandemic affected therapists' values and ethics, and evolving roles brought expanded tasks. The crisis showcased both collaboration potential and the need to address team disparities. This study highlights the significance of values, roles, teams, and communication for occupational and physical therapists during the COVID-19 pandemic providing valuable insights into interprofessional collaboration's effect on healthcare delivery in times of crisis and beyond.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1469-9567
Volume :
38
Issue :
4
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of interprofessional care
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
38743046
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/13561820.2024.2351007