Family-centered rounds: views of families, nurses, trainees, and attending physicians

Abstract

Objective: To study the impact of family-centered rounds for general pediatrics inpatients.

Methods: An observation tool and participant surveys was developed. The authors analyzed rounding time and rounds participants. Associations between family presence and participants' satisfaction were analyzed.

Results: Data were collected on 295 patients and from 257 staff members. Average rounding time was reduced with increased family and nurse presence (8.7 minutes with both, 12.7 minutes without family, P = .0001). Families reported high satisfaction regardless of participants. Families present on rounds reported increased knowledge of team members' roles (54% vs 35%, P = .04). Attending physicians more often reported ease in managing rounds with families present. Senior residents perceived decreased autonomy with high family participation (11%) versus low family participation (70%; P = .02). Improved nurse satisfaction was associated with increased family and nurse participation.

Conclusion: Family participation may shorten inpatient rounds. Families and staff were satisfied with family-centered rounds, though senior resident autonomy requires attention.