Effective communication and teamwork is essential to providing high quality care. Teamwork on general medical and pediatric units is especially challenging. This module will define fundamental principles, describe methods for assessment, and review interventions designed to improve teamwork in the hospital setting.

The Teamwork and Communication Module is an online learning module that begins with a lesson, and contains a 10 question post-test with accompanying answers, rationales, and references. When the participant selects an answer, immediate feedback (i.e., rationale) is given explaining the correct answer. 

Quick Facts

Format: Internet-based module beginning with a lesson, and followed by a post-test of 8 questions with accompanying answers, rationales, and references.

Educational Objectives

Upon completion of this educational activity, participants should be able to:

• Explain how poor teamwork and communication failures contribute to adverse events
• Describe principles and behaviors consistent with effective teamwork
• Collaborate on the use and interpretation of teamwork measurement tools
• Explain the potential for errors and identify deficiencies in transitions within and between healthcare settings (handoffs, transfers, discharge)
• Describe interventions designed to reduce risk during transitions within and between healthcare settings (handoffs, transfers, discharge)

SHM CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE POLICY

In accordance with the ACCME Standards for Commercial Support, SHM requires that individuals in a position to control the content of an educational activity disclose all relevant financial relationships with any commercial interest. SHM resolves all conflicts of interest to ensure independence, objectivity, balance, and scientific rigor in all its educational programs. All relevant financial relationships shall be disclosed to participants prior to the start of the activity.

Furthermore, SHM seeks to verify that all scientific research referred to, reported, or used in a continuing medical education (CME) activity conforms to the generally accepted standards of experimental design, data collection, and analysis. SHM is committed to providing its learners with high-quality CME activities that promote improvements in healthcare and not those of a commercial interest.