Improve the Communication, Decrease the Distance: The Investigation into Problematic Communication and Delays in Inter-Hospital Transfer of Rural Trauma Patients

Abstract

Time delays in the treatment and transfer of trauma patients is a contributing factor responsible for many fatalities. Time delays are more characteristic of rural trauma systems due to factors such as greater distance, and delays in accident reporting. Efforts to reduce the trauma transfer process have resulted in many changes in protocol and use of technology, yet have resulted in little improvement in time reduction. The current investigation sought to test the effects of communication training on the trauma transfer process. Results indicate that personnel in trauma facilities that received both medical and communication training (effective and affirming communication) reported decreased patient transfer times.