Barriers to Implementing Patient-Centered Care in Nursing Practice: Review

Abstract

Background: Patient-centered care (PCC) is essential for enhancing healthcare outcomes by addressing the unique needs and preferences of patients. However, barriers to implementing PCC in nursing practice persist, affecting communication and overall care quality.

Methods: This literature review synthesizes findings from empirical studies on nurse-patient interactions across various healthcare settings. Databases including CINAHL, PubMed, and Medline were searched for relevant articles published in English, focusing on barriers and facilitators of patient-centered communication. Key themes were identified and organized to propose a conceptual model, the Patient-Centered Care and Communication Continuum (PC4) Model.

Results: Four main categories of barriers were identified: institutional and healthcare system-related, communication-related, environmental, and personal and behavioral barriers. Common challenges include staffing shortages, time constraints, inadequate training in communication skills, and cultural differences between nurses and patients. The review highlighted that effective communication is integral to successful PCC, with studies showing that improved nurse-patient communication fosters patient involvement and satisfaction.

Conclusion: Addressing the identified barriers is crucial for enhancing patient-centered care in nursing practice. The PC4 Model serves as a framework for understanding and improving nurse-patient interactions. By prioritizing effective communication and fostering a supportive healthcare environment, nurses can better meet the needs of patients and their families, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.