Barriers to nurse/nursing aide communication: the search for collegiality in a southeast Ohio nursing home

Aim The aims of this study were: (1) to identify barriers to nurse/nursing aide communication and to discuss and provide solutions to some of these problems through a focus group; and (2) to determine the effectiveness of this focus group on job satisfaction-related outcomes. Background Numerous studies have attributed problems with nurse staffing and turnover to faulty communication between nursing supervisors and nursing aides. Methods Registered nurses (RNs) (n = 2), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) (n = 10) and nursing aides (n = 19) were interviewed; narrative themes from the interviews were then used to guide focus group discussions. A job satisfaction survey in a pre-test/post-test fashion was used to test the efficacy of the focus group. Results Qualitative data from the interviews highlighted: (1) anger and condescension in communication; and (2) lack of mentoring, empathy and respect. The job satisfaction survey data showed that the attitudes decreased significantly among participants in the focus group but not in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion Nurse supervisors, both RN and LPN, are key to educational reform and must be taught collegial methods when delegating authority. Implications for nursing management Findings from this study can be used to develop a multidisciplinary educational tool to foster communication and collegiality, thereby reducing job turnover in nursing homes.