In recent years, the interplay between technology and healthcare has become increasingly intricate, redefining how medical professionals communicate. A groundbreaking study conducted by Bagla et al., set to be published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine in 2025, sheds light on an essential but often overlooked aspect of medical communication: nurses’ preferences during inpatient physician rounds. Titled “Phone Calls Over Clicks: A Survey Study Assessing Nurses’ Communication Preferences During Inpatient Physician Rounds,” this research may drastically influence the strategies hospitals employ to ensure effective communication among healthcare teams.
In the clinical environment, communication is not merely about exchanging information; it is an integral component of quality patient care. The dynamic interactions between nurses and physicians have far-reaching implications for patient outcomes. Given that nurses often serve as the frontline providers of patient care, their insights and preferences can significantly enhance the efficacy of clinical communication. However, the study indicates that many healthcare systems still rely heavily on electronic communication tools, often sidelining traditional methods like phone calls, which may be more effective in certain circumstances.
One of the striking findings of Bagla and colleagues is that a majority of nurses expressed a preference for phone calls over electronic communications or “clicks.” The rationale is clear: phone calls facilitate immediate feedback and allow for a more nuanced conversation, something text or email often fails to achieve. The implications of this preference are profound, as they suggest a re-evaluation of communication protocols within hospitals; a model that integrates verbal communication methods can not only streamline workflows but can also bolster patient safety.
Furthermore, the study likely distinguishes between different scenarios in which communication preferences shift. For instance, during high-stakes periods such as inpatient physician rounds, nurses might find the immediacy of a voice conversation allows them to voice critical patient concerns swiftly. By understanding these preferences, healthcare providers can develop a more responsive and adaptive communication strategy that aligns with the needs of the clinical staff and ultimately benefits patients.
Another element of the research emphasizes the importance of adaptability in communication styles. The healthcare environment is increasingly complex, with a diverse set of tools at clinicians’ disposal. Yet, as the study underscores, more tools do not necessarily lead to better outcomes. Training nurses and physicians to recognize when to prioritize phone calls could serve as a method for maintaining effective communication in fast-paced environments.
As the study unfolds, it raises the question of how electronic health records (EHR) and other digital forms of communication contribute to the potential breakdown in essential dialogue. Nurses have reported frustrations related to EHR systems that often demand time-consuming data entry and detract from face-to-face conversations. The growing reliance on digital tools for communication may inadvertently create silos instead of fostering collaborative care teams. Understanding this digital divide could be a cornerstone for enhancing communication frameworks that balance technology with traditional methods.
Moreover, the qualitative data from the survey could reveal the emotional aspect of communication in nursing. Emotional intelligence plays a critical role in patient care; therefore, the ability to gauge tone, emotion, and urgency can simply be lost through a screen. By prioritizing communication methods that allow for these nuances, hospitals can cultivate a healthier work environment and improve patient satisfaction scores.
In identifying communication preferences, it becomes crucial to consider the role of generational differences among health care providers. Younger nurses who are digital natives might feel more comfortable with text-based communication. However, this study indicates that such comfort does not always translate to effectiveness. There’s a palpable need for a generational bridge; training programs that focus not just on technology but on interpersonal communication are critical.
Beyond the clinical staff, these findings also echo through to administrative levels. Hospital administrators are increasingly tasked with optimizing workflows while ensuring adequate communication. The notion of prioritizing phone calls could help inform policies that establish standards for communication pathways. These should consider staff preferences and prioritize those methods that are shown to reduce patient wait times and improve care delivery.
At the heart of the study is a call to action for policymakers in the healthcare sector. As more studies emerge that address the efficacy of communication methods, regulatory bodies need to start considering how their guidelines can incorporate these insights. The foundation of effective communication is built on understanding practitioners’ needs, and adapting policies to reflect those needs is essential for resilience in healthcare delivery.
As we move into an era defined by hyperconnectivity, the implications of Bagla et al.’s study extend beyond the walls of individual hospitals. This research could very well set a precedent for how healthcare systems worldwide adopt effective communication strategies. By focusing on what nurses actually prefer and need during critical moments, we can build a more collaborative culture that values communication as a central pillar of patient care.
Ultimately, this study serves as a reminder that in the healthcare journey, technology should function as a facilitator of communication rather than a barrier. The method by which healthcare teams converse is as vital to patient outcomes as any clinical guideline. If nurses prefer phone calls, then hospitals must take heed of this preference and reassess existing communication infrastructures if they wish to deliver on the promise of high-quality, patient-centered care.
The era of communication technology is far from over, but it is essential that we continue to critically evaluate how these tools impact real-world practices, particularly in high-stakes environments. As this study by Bagla and colleagues illustrates, sometimes the simplest choice may lead to the most profound improvements in patient care and workforce satisfaction.
In conclusion, the research emphasizes that nurses’ communication preferences, particularly during inpatient rounds, must be acknowledged and integrated into healthcare communication models. By prioritizing methods that align with their preferences, healthcare providers can optimize patient care, enhance professional satisfaction, and pave the way for a more connected and effective healthcare system overall.
Subject of Research: Nurses’ Communication Preferences During Inpatient Physician Rounds
Article Title: Phone Calls Over Clicks: A Survey Study Assessing Nurses’ Communication Preferences During Inpatient Physician Rounds
Article References:
Bagla, P., Hanna, J., Hanfelt, . et al. Phone Calls Over Clicks: A Survey Study Assessing Nurses’ Communication Preferences During Inpatient Physician Rounds.
J GEN INTERN MED (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-025-09805-y
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: Communication, Nursing, Physician Rounds, Inpatient Care, Health Systems.
