Leveraging Relational Coordination Theory to Optimize Interprofessional Leader Relationships and Improve Patient Progression Outcomes 1 views

Suboptimal teamwork is a recognized public health concern as it adversely affects quality of care and team member outcomes. In contrast, teams characterized by effective communication, shared knowledge and goals, and mutual respect demonstrate improved performance and outcomes. The purpose of this pilot project was to strengthen interprofessional relationships and improve patient progression outcomes on two adult acute care units with eight interprofessional leaders. At a large, academic tertiary care hospital in the mid-Atlantic region, a twelve-week pilot grounded in Relational Coordination Theory was implemented using a series of Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles to improve patient progression outcomes. Team perceptions of interprofessional relationships were measured using an author developed survey. A 56% improvement in discharges before noon was associated with an 86% increase in orders placed before 10:00 a.m. and an 11% reduction in time from order to discharge. By project completion, discharges occurred an average of 51 minutes earlier. Relational coordination scores improved across all 14 survey items. This pilot project suggests that strengthening relational coordination among interprofessional leaders may improve patient progression outcomes in acute care settings. Relational Coordination Theory offers a promising framework for advancing interprofessional collaboration and supporting timely, patient-centered care.

DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)

interprofessional; relational coordination; patient progression; outcomes

English

2026-04-30