Exploring Physician, Nurse Practitioner, and Respiratory Therapist Perceptions on NIV Progress Notes: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Background: Effective interdisciplinary communication and documentation are vital in healthcare settings. Progress notes play a key role in documenting treatment and monitoring patient progress across different therapeutic modalities and disciplines. However, respiratory therapists' routine practice of documenting progress notes has been limited. Understanding the perceptions of physicians, nurse practitioners, and respiratory therapists regarding Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) progress notes can provide valuable insights into interdisciplinary communication and patient care optimization. This study aims to explore and compare healthcare professionals' perceptions of NIV progress notes documented by the respiratory therapist.

Methods: A one-year follow-up survey was conducted among physicians, nurse practitioners, and respiratory therapists who utilized RT NIV progress notes. The survey assessed the ease of utilization and perceived value of NIV progress notes. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed to analyze the survey data and identify common themes.

Results: A total of 62 RT staff members were surveyed, with 43 responding to the electronic survey on NIV progress notes. Regarding ease of utilization, respondents had varying perceptions: 15 found it very easy, 15 moderately easy, 15 were neutral, one moderately difficult, and none found it extremely difficult. In terms of perceived value to patient care and the discharge process, 19 considered it very valuable, 15 somewhat valuable, 9 were neutral, and 3 did not find it valuable. The survey also included responses from 19 physicians and 4 nurse practitioners. Of these, 13 were aware of the NIV progress note's existence, while 10 were not. Among the physicians and nurse practitioners aware of the NIV progress note and serving at UCLA SM, 10 found it very valuable, 1 somewhat valuable, and 2 held a neutral stance.

Conclusions: These findings provide insights into the perceptions of RT staff, physicians, and nurse practitioners regarding the utilization of a NIV progress note. This emphasizes the importance of considering interdisciplinary perspectives and collaborative efforts to optimize the utilization and effectiveness of the NIV progress note in enhancing patient care and the discharge process. Future research should focus on investigating the impact of NIV progress notes on length of stay, readmission rates, physician education, and ongoing evaluation of practitioner satisfaction with the enhanced NIV communication tool.