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. 2021 Jul-Aug;51(7-8):409-415.
doi: 10.1097/NNA.0000000000001037.

A Longitudinal Study of the Impact of Schwartz Center Rounds on Moral Distress

Phyllis B Whitehead  1 , Tonja M Locklear, Kimberly Ferren Carter
Affiliations

A Longitudinal Study of the Impact of Schwartz Center Rounds on Moral Distress

Phyllis B Whitehead et al. J Nurs Adm. 2021 Jul-Aug.

Abstract

Moral distress occurs when moral integrity is compromised and can affect any healthcare professional. This study examined the impact of Schwartz Center Rounds (SCRs) on moral distress using a longitudinal, quasi-experimental design to examine SCR attendees from 2015 to 2019. Data were collected via a 2-part survey composed of demographics and Moral Distress Thermometer (MDT) readings before rounds and immediately after rounds. Most participants experienced either no change in moral distress (50.6%) or a decrease in moral distress (33.7%) after attending one of the SCRs. Participants who worked with adult populations had higher moral distress after participation for most topics. An increase in moral distress was associated with a longer time in the current position. Fifty percent of the physicians had a decrease in their moral distress immediately after the rounds. Schwartz Center Rounds is a promising approach to foster high-functioning teams while promoting wellness and mitigating moral distress among employees.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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