Date of this Version

2024

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

Patient satisfaction is strongly influenced by the quality of communication between patients and healthcare providers. This study examines how patient satisfaction in an observation unit at a local pediatric hospital is impacted by a communication strategy called the "badge buddy" tool. The badge buddy helps Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and hospitalists address essential topics with patients, aiming to improve the patient and family experience by enhancing clarity, thoroughness, and empathy in communication.

A quasi-experimental pre- and post-intervention design was used, involving fifteen to twenty hospitalist physicians and APRNs. A literature review and needs assessment were conducted to align the intervention with best practices. Participants were recruited via personalized emails and flyers, and the badge buddy tool was implemented throughout the unit. The tool includes prompts to address common patient concerns, promoting consistent and compassionate communication. Patient satisfaction was assessed using existing hospital discharge surveys, which provide aggregated satisfaction data without patient identifiers. Scores were compared pre- and post-intervention to evaluate the tool’s impact.

Preliminary results indicate that the badge buddy tool may improve patient satisfaction, particularly in communication and provider responsiveness. Though no patient-specific data were collected, aggregated survey findings show a positive trend in satisfaction scores after the intervention. This study highlights the value of the badge buddy tool in increasing patient satisfaction in pediatric hospitals and emphasizes the importance of structured communication tools in enhancing patient-provider interactions. Future efforts will focus on expanding the badge buddy tool to other hospital units to further validate its effectiveness and promote patient-centered communication.

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