A nurse is discussing advancing interprofessional communication on the unit. Which of the following should the nurse identify as a barrier to this advancement?

Choice A reason: Critical thinking is a component of clinical decision-making that the nurse should use to make an evidence based decision. Critical thinking is the process of applying logic, reasoning, analysis, and evaluation to the information and evidence that is available. Critical thinking helps the nurse to identify and question assumptions, biases, and gaps in the data, and to draw valid and reliable conclusions based on the best available evidence.
Choice B reason: Clinical judgement is not a component of clinical decision-making, but an outcome of clinical decision-making. Clinical judgement is the result of applying critical thinking and clinical reasoning to the data and evidence that is gathered and interpreted. Clinical judgement is the expression of the nurse's decision or opinion about the client's situation, needs, and interventions.
Choice C reason: Concept mapping is not a component of clinical decision-making, but a tool or a strategy that can facilitate clinical decision-making. Concept mapping is a visual representation of the relationships among concepts, data, and evidence that are relevant to the client's situation. Concept mapping can help the nurse to organize, synthesize, and analyze the information, and to identify patterns, themes, and gaps in the data.
Choice D reason: Clinical reasoning is not a component of clinical decision-making, but a process that is involved in clinical decision-making. Clinical reasoning is the cognitive process that the nurse uses to collect, process, interpret, and integrate the data and evidence that is available. Clinical reasoning helps the nurse to make sense of the client's situation, needs, and responses, and to select the appropriate interventions and actions.

The correct answer is b. Misunderstanding of roles.

Choice A: Scope of practice

Reason: While the scope of practice defines the roles and responsibilities of different healthcare professionals, it is not inherently a barrier to interprofessional communication. Instead, it provides clarity on what each professional can and cannot do, which can actually facilitate better teamwork and communication.

Choice B: Misunderstanding of roles

Reason: Misunderstanding of roles is a significant barrier to interprofessional communication. When team members are unclear about each other’s roles and responsibilities, it can lead to confusion, overlap, and gaps in care. This misunderstanding can hinder effective collaboration and communication, as team members may not know who to turn to for specific issues or may duplicate efforts.

Choice C: Privacy laws

Reason: Privacy laws, such as HIPAA in the United States, are designed to protect patient information. While they impose certain restrictions on information sharing, they are not a primary barrier to interprofessional communication. Healthcare teams can still communicate effectively within the boundaries of these laws by ensuring that patient information is shared appropriately and securely.

Choice D: Burnout

Reason: Burnout is a significant issue in healthcare, affecting the well-being and performance of healthcare professionals. However, it is more of a personal and systemic issue rather than a direct barrier to interprofessional communication. Burnout can indirectly affect communication by reducing the overall effectiveness and engagement of team members.