Communication Experts Research Articles

A Delphi Study on Identifying Competencies in Virtual Healthcare for Healthcare Professionals.

Virtual care adoption accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for healthcare professionals to develop relevant competencies. However, limited evidence exists on the core competencies required for quality virtual care delivery. This study aimed to identify the critical competencies physicians, nurses, and other health professionals need for adequate virtual care provision in Saudi Arabia using a Delphi method. A 3-round Delphi technique was applied with a panel of 42 experts, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, academicians, and telehealth specialists. In Round 1, an open-ended questionnaire elicited competencies needed for virtual care. The competencies were distilled and rated for importance in Rounds 2 and 3 until consensus was achieved. Consensus emerged on 151 competencies across 33 domains. The most prominent domains were communication (15 competencies), professionalism (13), leadership (12), health informatics (5), digital literacy (5), and clinical expertise (11).

Information Source Attributes and Terrorism Risk Preparedness among the Residents of Nairobi City County

Purpose: The main purpose of the study was to establish the association of source attributes and terrorism risk preparedness among the residents of Nairobi City County.
 Materials and Methods: This study followed a mixed-methods design comprising mainly of a questionnaire survey complemented by observation, key informant interviews and document analysis, The design employed the Concurrent Convergent (Triangulation) Parallel strategy. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Nairobi City County has a resident population of 4,397,073. A further estimated 2.5 million non-residents visit the city-county daily for business, work, or as tourists and travelers in transit to other counties. Therefore, the target population for this study was approximately 6.5 million. The study population was drawn using stratified purposive random sampling technique where the list of all the sampling locations was categorized into four strata. The sample size was 640 respondents who were proportionately randomly drawn from four different strata. 
 Findings: Regression of coefficients showed that source attributes and terrorism risk preparedness were positively and significantly related (β=0.379, p=0.000). Specifically, 53.6% of the respondents agreed with the statement that receiving information from credible sources on terrorism attacks provides motivation for preparedness in case of a terrorist attack. Similarly, 64.8% agreed with the statement that consistency in terrorism risks communications provides motivation to preparedness behaviour adoption 62.6% of the respondents were in concurrence that competence among that communication terrorism risk preparedness was a motivating factor for preparedness. Further, only 43.1% of the respondents indicated that their organisations were using experts in terrorism risk communication and preparedness. 64.6% were of the opinion that involving non experts in decisions related to terrorism risk communications and preparedness can result in preparedness action taking laxity.
 Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that professionals charged with emergency risk communication for terrorism preparedness should particularly: demonstrate expertise and competence in the subject matter to instill confidence in their audiences that the information is reliable and useful. This can be achieved by involving qualified professionals, experts, or organizations with relevant experience in emergency risk preparedness and build trust by being transparent, honest, and reliable in communication. Trust can also be enhanced by providing accurate information, acknowledging uncertainties when applicable, and addressing any concerns or doubts promptly.

Abstract 1300: A collaborative approach to enhance tissue donation for cancer research; the UNC Patients and Researchers Together (PART) Program

Abstract Introduction: Tumor tissue-based cancer research is essential to translate scientific discoveries to improve treatments for cancer. Tissue donation programs require a partnership: patients donating tissue and researchers using tissue for translational research. Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (LCCC) has established a program called Patients and Researchers Together (PART) to value and increase the number of patients who agree to donate tissue for research. The PART Program is a patient-centered partnership between patients, community members, oncologists, surgeons, researchers, as well as staff and faculty from the clinical trials office, tissue procurement facility and UNC health communications to increase tissue donations for cancer research by valuing the patient’s contribution. Methods: The PART program began in 2021 by convening a group of diverse partners with a common goal of valuing patients as partners in biospecimen research. Creating an environment of bidirectional communication and exchange of ideas to 1) inform patients about the benefits of donating tissue for research, 2) inform the public about the importance of tissue to help researchers learn more about cancer, and 3) ensure researchers at UNC have access to tissue for their research. In the initial phase, the PART team evaluated the tissue research needs at LCCC by conducting surveys, interviews and focus groups with key partners. This set the foundation for the focus of current activities. One of the key focus areas is to communicate to patients and the public about the value of using tissue in research. The PART program established a working group to develop patient materials. The working group developed a template for educational materials, study summaries and a rigorous review process. The development of materials and iterative review process includes content experts, health literacy experts, patients and community members, and communications experts. Results: The PART working group developed a series of educational materials about tissue donation for research. Understanding the importance of donating tissue for research is the first step in engaging with patients. The team developed a template and a multi-step process to review documents. PART used this information to develop a website to promote tissue donation for research to the public. The team has been developing summaries of studies focused on tissue donation. We developed or consulted on 2 general education flyers and 8 study summaries in a variety of cancer types. There is a continuous queue of studies in progress and plans to develop more general education materials. PART patients and community members are leading the effort to educate patients and the public about tissue use in research. LCCC values patients who donate their tissue to research to improve the lives of all cancer patients. Citation Format: Patricia A. Spears, Missy Van Lokeren, Vernal Branch, Jennifer A. Potter, Ryan Robinson, Patient And Researchers Together (PART) Team. A collaborative approach to enhance tissue donation for cancer research; the UNC Patients and Researchers Together (PART) Program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1300.

Intelligence in the time of war: Romanian lenses on changing practices and social dynamics

ABSTRACT Crucial in any military conflict, information warfare has proved to be a distinguishing characteristic and an essential strategic means in the Russo-Ukrainian War. Both sides have invested in advancing narratives that can facilitate and support their version of truth and that can make a difference in winning the war. Publishing open source and declassified intelligence has been employed as a tactic in an unprecedented way, one that has stimulated an intense debate over the reconceptualisation of intelligence and the new role intelligence needs to play in a larger social context. Due to its novelty and potential, this major shift requires further attention. Additionally, its meanings and reflections deserve deciphering in other national contexts that are relevant for understanding the role of intelligence in the Russo-Ukrainian war. The paper looks at the particular case of Romania, whose relevance is determined mostly by its geographical proximity to the conflict area. By using qualitative research, it aims to investigate the perceptions of two types of respondents: Romanian experts in intelligence, security and strategic communication, and students taking intelligence and security-related study programmes.

Science Outreach as Science, Technique and Art:The Case of musicaenelnoreste.mx

This article explores the challenges of developing a website for outreachin the social sciences, specifically one specializing in popular music studiesin Northeast Mexico and South Texas. It touches on the communication models of the social sciences, including the communications and negotiations with those who developed the scientific knowledge and are now involved in the stage of outreach as well as publicists or social communication experts. The visions of theseindividuals do not always coincide with those of the website developers. While emphasizing the complexities of outreach, the article challenges the idea that it is imperative for the building of scientific knowledge.

From the President

Howdy AMWA,I have 2 children, and during this time of year, parents are asked to volunteer for career day. I don’t know about you, but when I tell people I’m a professional medical communication expert, most have never heard of our profession. Doctors, nurses, and scientists have well-established roles in our society, but medical communicators still remain off the radar of most young people’s career options. As I begin to describe what I do to my kids, their eyes often glaze over but, when speaking to friends and the public, many are interested and see the obvious value we, as communicators, bring to the health care fields and beyond. As I speak with students, scientists, doctors, nurses, and medical liaisons, I find myself telling them, “You are a medical communicator too.”

Risk Perception, Acceptance, and Trust of Using AI in Gastroenterology Practice in the Asia-Pacific Region: Web-Based Survey Study

Background The use of artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize health care, but this raises risk concerns. It is therefore crucial to understand how clinicians trust and accept AI technology. Gastroenterology, by its nature of being an image-based and intervention-heavy specialty, is an area where AI-assisted diagnosis and management can be applied extensively. Objective This study aimed to study how gastroenterologists or gastrointestinal surgeons accept and trust the use of AI in computer-aided detection (CADe), computer-aided characterization (CADx), and computer-aided intervention (CADi) of colorectal polyps in colonoscopy. Methods We conducted a web-based questionnaire from November 2022 to January 2023, involving 5 countries or areas in the Asia-Pacific region. The questionnaire included variables such as background and demography of users; intention to use AI, perceived risk; acceptance; and trust in AI-assisted detection, characterization, and intervention. We presented participants with 3 AI scenarios related to colonoscopy and the management of colorectal polyps. These scenarios reflect existing AI applications in colonoscopy, namely the detection of polyps (CADe), characterization of polyps (CADx), and AI-assisted polypectomy (CADi). Results In total, 165 gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons responded to a web-based survey using the structured questionnaire designed by experts in medical communications. Participants had a mean age of 44 (SD 9.65) years, were mostly male (n=116, 70.3%), and mostly worked in publicly funded hospitals (n=110, 66.67%). Participants reported relatively high exposure to AI, with 111 (67.27%) reporting having used AI for clinical diagnosis or treatment of digestive diseases. Gastroenterologists are highly interested to use AI in diagnosis but show different levels of reservations in risk prediction and acceptance of AI. Most participants (n=112, 72.72%) also expressed interest to use AI in their future practice. CADe was accepted by 83.03% (n=137) of respondents, CADx was accepted by 78.79% (n=130), and CADi was accepted by 72.12% (n=119). CADe and CADx were trusted by 85.45% (n=141) of respondents and CADi was trusted by 72.12% (n=119). There were no application-specific differences in risk perceptions, but more experienced clinicians gave lesser risk ratings. Conclusions Gastroenterologists reported overall high acceptance and trust levels of using AI-assisted colonoscopy in the management of colorectal polyps. However, this level of trust depends on the application scenario. Moreover, the relationship among risk perception, acceptance, and trust in using AI in gastroenterology practice is not straightforward.

Persuasive Communication Factors and Their Effect on COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance Amongst Residents of the Informal Urban Settlement in Kenya

Despite the immense resources and intensified interventions by the government and the international community, the desired uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine in Kenya has not been commendable. Hesitancy toward the COVID-19 vaccine remains high among the Kenyan population. Misconception and negative publicity have widely affected vaccine uptake. Since the vaccine is now readily available in the country’s private and public health facilities, it is critical to convince those hesitant to take it. Persuasive communication plays a critical role in the messaging framework during a public health crisis. They mostly rely on various communication channels, communication sources, and messaging structures to convey the public health message at different levels and to various targets. Given the expansive information environment, we sought to characterize the use of persuasive communication factors for COVID-19 vaccine information and determine their effect on vaccine acceptance. This study evaluated persuasive communication factors and their effect on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among residents of informal urban settlements in Kenya. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in the informal urban settlement of Kibera. Data was collected using a structured pretested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Demographic variables were analyzed and presented using means and proportions. The results indicated that trustworthiness/expertise (β = 0.175, p = 0.001), attractiveness/likability (β = 0.120, p = 0.009), and familiarity/similarity (β = 0.165, p = 0.001) significantly affected the likelihood of vaccine acceptance. Message factors such as factual/logical appeals (β = 0.829, p = 0.000) significantly and positively affected the likelihood of vaccination. Channel factors such as interactivity (β = 0.439, p = 0.000) and decidability (β = 0.287, p = 0.019) significantly positively affected the likelihood of vaccination. The study found that trustworthiness/expertise, attractiveness/likability, familiarity/similarity, factual/logical appeals, interactivity, and decidability significantly affect vaccine acceptance. These findings can inform policymakers, public health professionals, and communication experts on effective communication strategies to enhance vaccine uptake in informal urban settlements.

Spotlight on a Thought Leader - How to Become an Effective Communicator: Schulz von Thun’s Contribution to Business Communication

This article explores the ingredients of effective business communication, presenting the extensive work of German psychologist and communication expert Friedemann Schulz von Thun. Over the course of his 50-year career, Schulz von Thun has developed numerous frameworks and tools that enhance our understanding of how to talk to one another to settle disagreements, promote strong relationships and foster individual as well as organizational success. We offer a concise synthesis of his most influential concepts (i.e., the square of communication, the inner team, and the value square) and illustrate their application in communication research and practice.

Perceived Social Media Influencers’ Reputation of a Beauty Cosmetics Company: A Perspective of Customers

In the digital age, social media influencers (SMI) have become a pivotal promotional strategy to persuade and influence consumers. However, many of the previous studies only focused on the characteristics and traits of the influencers, but lack of studies was examined on the reputation aspect of the influencer. Thus, this study aims to examine the consumers’ perception of SMI’s reputation of a beauty company, which comprised of Communication Skills, Influence, Authenticity, and Expert. The study applied a quantitative design through a survey method to solicit 190 usable responses via purposive sampling. The findings demonstrated that the four dimensions of SMI’s reputation are positively perceived by the respondents, where the Expert dimension was highly perceived by the consumers of the beauty company, followed by Influence, Communication Skills, and Authenticity. Thus, the beauty brand and marketing managers should examine the qualities and reputation of the SMIs before allowing them to endorse or promote the products, to ensure they have favorable images in the public eye. Conclusion, implications, and future research were discussed.

PRODUCTION OF "PODCAST KOMUNIKASI": AS AN ALTERNATIVE MEDIUM FOR LEARNING IN COMMUNICATION SCIENCE

This article is about the process and development of an audio podcast series titled "Podcast Komunikasi", driven by the recognition of communication science's pivotal role in contemporary society. Traditional educational media often struggle to effectively engage learners in this dynamic field, prompting the exploration of podcasting as an innovative learning medium. The primary objective is to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, offering valuable insights into communication theory, practice, and trends for students and professionals. The "Podcast Komunikasi" aims to harness the popularity and accessibility of podcasts as a unique platform for communication science education. The content will be meticulously researched through a multidisciplinary approach that combines communication science expertise with podcast production skills to identify key topics and themes within the field. This ensures that the episodes are informative, relevant, and engaging. A collaborative team comprising communication experts, podcast producers, and audio engineers will work cohesively to script, record, and edit each episode, guaranteeing high-quality production and effective delivery of the subject matter. The podcast's accessibility will be enhanced by incorporating storytelling techniques and expert interviews, making it appealing to a diverse audience. The ultimate goal of this project is to publish the podcasts on platforms such as Anchor and Spotify. In conclusion, this initiative seeks to create an innovative and accessible medium for learning about communication science. The "Podcast Komunikasi" aspires to expand knowledge, encourage practical applications, and foster a thriving community of communication science enthusiasts by integrating research, expert collaboration, and compelling storytelling

Watchful waiting: public relations strategies to minimize and manage a fake news crisis

PurposeFake news stories have become a central element of crises that corporate public relations practitioners have confronted. Whether such stories are rumors, outright lies or deliberate attempts to discredit corporations, they have the same impact and require specific strategies for public relations practitioners to effectively respond. The purpose of this study is to uncover strategies to manage crises that arise from fake news and if and how these strategies differ for other corporate crises.Design/methodology/approachIn this multi-method study of 21 in-depth interviews and a 8-person focus group with senior-level corporate public relations practitioners, authors explored decision-making strategies for responding to fake news crises. Transcripts of interviews and the focus group were thematically analyzed.FindingsResults reveal insights regarding how public relations practitioners determine if and when to respond to fake news crises in corporations; what response strategies public relations practitioners have the autonomy to employ for fake news crises in corporations, and how public relations practitioners control media narratives during fake news crises in corporations.Practical implicationsThe findings guide public relations practitioners to craft an autonomous decision-making process and effective online listening strategies—establishing a watchful waiting approach—and determine if the fake news issue is a passing moment or movement swirling into a crisis.Originality/valueFew studies have examined the perspectives of crisis communication experts about minimizing and managing fake news crises. The study identifies opportunities for future research focused on crises originating from fake news and disinformation.

Comparing ChatGPT and Google Bard: Assessing AI-Powered Information Retrieval in Nursing

Introduction In healthcare, rapid access to accurate information is essential, especially for nurses who make critical decisions. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers promise in this context, with ChatGPT and Google Bard being notable AI-driven information retrieval tools. Methods This study evaluated ChatGPT and Google Bard's performance by assessing their responses to 50 diverse medical knowledge questions, covering infection control, vital signs, CPR, and more, and comparing their response to the correct answers. Results ChatGPT achieved a 64% accuracy rate, while Google Bard achieved 56%. Both models agreed on key medical concepts, but disagreements emerged in some areas, highlighting disparities in their responses. Nurses' expertise in patient-centered care, clinical judgment, and communication complements AI. AI aids in providing evidence-based information but cannot replace nurses' human touch and critical thinking. Integrating AI into nursing education enhances learning and prepares professionals for evolving healthcare landscapes. Conclusion ChatGPT and Google Bard have strengths and weaknesses, making them valuable aids but not substitutes for nurses. Ethical considerations are vital as AI continues to shape healthcare. Nurses must ensure ethical AI use while upholding their commitment to compassionate care.

Stratifikasi dalam praktek komunikasi bahasa Jawa dan masa depan kontekstualisasi kajian barat terhadap “orang Jawa” (Sebuah agenda riset)

The development of locally-based communication theories in Indonesia in the context of globalization and the advancement of communication technology. Communication experts in Indonesia feel the need to develop communication concepts that are in line with the local context. This concept has been pioneered by several communication experts in Asian countries such as China, India, Korea, and Japan. The dominance of Western theories has sparked a desire to research and develop communication science concepts by emphasizing cultural uniqueness. This research outlines the cultural characteristic differences between the West and the East, especially in left (West) and right (East) thinking, as well as the use of time. An analysis is conducted on the stratified Javanese language concept, including the use of different language levels according to social stratification. In this context, the research also associates post-structuralist and post-colonial concepts to understand the dynamics of communication in Javanese society. The research concludes with a discussion of the influence of moral systems, social stratification, and power in the communication process using the Javanese language. It is concluded that communication in Javanese society is not only influenced by language levels but also by ethical and moral systems that regulate relationships between social classes. This research aims to provide new insights into the communication system in Javanese society and stimulate further research in the field of related communication sciences.

The communication strategy for the release of the first European Seismic Risk Model and the updated European Seismic Hazard Model

Abstract. To design user-centred and scientifically high-quality outreach products to inform about earthquake-related hazards and the associated risk, a close collaboration between the model developers and communication experts is needed. In this contribution, we present the communication strategy developed to support the public release of the first openly available European Seismic Risk Model and the updated European Seismic Hazard Model. The backbone of the strategy was the communication concept in which the overall vision, communication principles, target audiences (including personas), key messages, and products were defined. To fulfil the end-users' needs, we conducted two user testing surveys: one for the interactive risk map viewer and one for the risk poster with a special emphasis on the European earthquake risk map. To further ensure that the outreach products are not only understandable and attractive for different target groups but also adequate from a scientific point of view, a two-fold feedback mechanism involving experts in the field was implemented. Through a close collaboration with a network of communication specialists from other institutions supporting the release, additional feedback and exchange of knowledge was enabled. Our insights, gained as part of the release process, can support others in developing user-centred products reviewed by experts in the field to inform about hazard and risk models.

A Comprehensive Analysis of COVID-19 Misinformation, Public Health Impacts, and Communication Strategies: Scoping Review.

The COVID-19 pandemic was marked by an infodemic, characterized by the rapid spread of both accurate and false information, which significantly affected public health. This infodemic led to confusion, mistrust in health authorities, noncompliance with health guidelines, and engagement in risky health behaviors. Understanding the dynamics of misinformation during the pandemic is crucial for developing effective public health communication strategies. This comprehensive analysis aimed to examine the complexities of COVID-19 misinformation. Specifically, it sought to identify the sources and themes of misinformation, the target audiences most affected, and the effectiveness of various public health communication strategies in mitigating misinformation. This scoping review used the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Scopus databases to identify relevant studies. An established, methodical framework for scoping reviews was used to review literature published between December 2019 and September 2023. The inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed studies published in English that address COVID-19 misinformation and its sources, themes, and target audiences, as well as the effectiveness of public health communication strategies. The scoping review identified that misinformation significantly impacted mental health, vaccine hesitancy, and health care decision-making. Social media and traditional media were major conduits for spreading misinformation. Key misinformation themes included the origins of the virus, ineffective treatments, and misunderstandings about public health measures. Misinformation sources ranged from social media platforms to traditional media outlets and informal networks. The impact of misinformation was found to vary across different regions and demographic groups, with vulnerable populations being disproportionately affected. Effective strategies to counter misinformation included enhancing health literacy; using digital technology; promoting clear, authoritative communication; and implementing fact-checking mechanisms. In addition, community engagement and targeted health campaigns played a crucial role in addressing misinformation. The review emphasizes the critical need for accurate and consistent messaging to combat misinformation. Cooperative efforts among policy makers, health professionals, and communication experts are essential for developing effective interventions. Addressing the infodemic is vital for building a well-informed, health-literate society capable of handling misinformation in future global health crises. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of misinformation and highlights the importance of robust public health communication strategies. These findings can guide future efforts to mitigate the impact of misinformation during health emergencies.

Photographic visualization of stories: documenting the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities with guided photovoice.

People with intellectual disabilities are often excluded from participation in research, whilst research has the potential to enhance positive change in their lives. In the current study, using a guided photovoice procedure, the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities regarding participation in research are evaluated. A total of 14 participants with intellectual disabilities were interviewed using guided photovoice. Through thematical analyses the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities regarding photovoice are discussed. Benefits were taking time, visual cues and the opportunity to speak out. Challenges were abstract concepts and aftercare. Guided photovoice helps to better understand the perspective of people with intellectual disabilities and thus can help to improve their quality of life. People with intellectual disabilities were interested in taking part in the current research project and experienced participating as a positive experience. However careful planning and expertise in communication with people with intellectual disabilities is necessary to include people with intellectual disabilities in research.

One step closer: Laypeople’s perception of production steps for manufacturing CO2-based jet fuel

BackgroundThe need for greenhouse gas abatement measures grows as climate change threatens life on earth. Negative emission technologies, such as carbon capture and utilization (CCU), can reduce emissions from the transport sector, particularly aviation. However, the lack of support and low public acceptance can impact the successful introduction of new technologies. This study analyzes the factors that influence acceptance of the single production steps (capture, purification, conversion, and transport of CO2) of production of CO2-based jet fuels to identify acceptance hot spots and potential roll-out barriers.ResultsIn a quantitative survey with n = 543 German respondents, we find that transport of CO2 in comparison with capture, purification, and conversion of CO2 into hydrocarbons is perceived as less acceptable, efficient, and useful, more expensive as well as damaging for the environment and health. Furthermore, product-step specific risk perceptions, as well as benefit and barrier perceptions for CCU mainly predict people’s attitude towards the four production steps. A cluster-analysis revealed two groups, “Approvers” and “Sceptics”, which were characterized by distinctive perception profiles. Further analysis showed that sustainability (e.g., use of renewable energy) and efficiency (e.g., carbon removal and resource use) were of greater importance to Approvers.ConclusionsThe study’s results suggest the need for further research and information provision to enhance public understanding of the technology and its role as a part of circular economy approaches. Risk perceptions play a central role in determining attitudes towards CCU, which should be considered in future studies and communication strategies. The findings can inform policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communication experts working to promote sustainable aviation fuel technologies.

Peran Komunikasi Politik Dalam Membentuk Opini Publik Menghadapi Pemilu 2024

The 2024 General Election (Pemilu) is a crucial stage in the dynamics of democracy, where the role of political communication plays a central role in shaping public opinion. This phenomenon creates a need to understand in depth the influence of political communication on public perceptions of candidates, political parties, and crucial issues that influence the direction of state policy. This research aims to analyze the role of political communication in shaping public opinion ahead of the 2024 elections. The main focus is understanding how political communication strategies, including message personalization, social media, and investigative journalism, influence the formation of public opinion and voter participation. The research method used is descriptive qualitative. Data was collected through literature reviews, media content analysis, and interviews with political communication experts. A qualitative approach is used to deepen understanding of the complexity of political communication strategies and their impact on public opinion. The research results show that political communication strategies, especially message personalization, have a significant impact in shaping public opinion. Candidates who are able to connect emotionally with voters through personal life stories and values ​​build strong identification. Social media plays an important role in expanding the reach of political messages, while investigative journalism makes a major contribution in uncovering basic facts and maintaining the integrity of information.

Conceptualizations of interprofessional communication in intensive care units: findings from a scoping review

ABSTRACT Background Clinical errors in intensive care units (ICUs) are consistently attributed to communication errors. Despite its importance for patient safety and quality in critical care settings, few studies consider interprofessional communication as more than the basic exchange of information. Methods We conducted a scoping review of interprofessional communication in ICUs to (1) characterize how communication is defined and measured and (2) identify contributions the field of health communication can make to team communication in ICUs. Through a series of queries in PubMed and Communication and Mass Media Complete databases, we identified and compared persistent gaps in how communication is framed and theorized in 28 publications from health services and 6 from social science outlets. We identified research priorities and suggested strategies for discussing communication more holistically in future health services research. Results 34 articles published from 1999 to 2021 were included. Six explicitly defined communication. Six were published in social science journals, but none were authored by a communication studies scholar. Half of the articles addressed communication as a transaction focused on information transfer, and the other half addressed communication as a process. Conclusions Methodological implications are identified with the intent to encourage future interdisciplinary collaboration for studying communication in ICUs. We discuss the importance of (1) using language to describe communication that facilitates interdisciplinary engagement, (2) prioritizing communication as a process and using qualitative methods to provide insight, and (3) engaging health communication theories and experts to assist in developing more fruitful research questions and designs.