On the edge of decision-making in trauma care: A focus group study on radiographers’ experiences of interprofessional collaboration

Abstract

IntroductionThe temporary trauma teams in trauma alerts consist of a diverse group of unique professionals requiring interprofessional collaboration and coordination to achieve efficient, high-quality care. The uncertain situation and complex care environment impose high demands on team dynamics such as individual attitudes and team behaviours. Within interprofessional teams, interaction and coordination reflect the collective success of collaboration and the achievement of goals. Interactions with radiographers have increased in trauma teams given computed tomography's prominent role in providing crucial knowledge for decision-making in trauma care. This study aimed to explore radiographers' experiences of interprofessional collaboration during trauma alerts. MethodThe study was designed with focus group methodology, including 17 radiographers participating in five focus groups, analysed with an inductive focus group analysis. ResultsAn overarching theme, “On the edge of decision-making”, emerged along with three sub-themes: “Feeling included requires acknowledgement”, “Exclusion precludes shared knowledge”, and “Experience and mutual awareness facilitate team interaction”. ConclusionsInterprofessional collaboration from the radiographer's perspective within trauma teams requires a sense of inclusion and the ability to interact with the team. Exclusion from vital decision-making obstructs radiographers' comprehension of situations and thereby the interdependence in interprofessional collaboration. Implications for practiceCommon platforms are needed for knowledge sharing and team practices, including radiographers’ areas of responsibility and relational coordination to foster interprofessional relationships. Through these means interdependence through awareness and shared knowledge can be facilitated on trauma teams.