Which actions contribute to the development of an interprofessional learning and working culture in nursing homes? A realist action study

ObjectiveInsights about what actions contributed to the development of an interprofessional learning and working culture were lacking for nursing homes. This study aimed to provide insight into the context and actions that trigger mechanisms for the development of an interprofessional learning and working culture in nursing homes.Study designRealist evaluation action research was conducted from 2019 to 2023.Setting and participants11 teams in 6 Dutch nursing homes.Primary and secondary outcome measuresQuestionnaires, focus group interviews and observations were used to identify actions, context factors and mechanisms. We used retroductive analysis to discuss how actions were related to the development of the culture. Actions were evaluated in terms of context and manner in which they contribute to the development.Results21 actions were identified and clustered into two themes. Theme 1: improving person-centred care. Actions activated the mechanisms of critical reflective behaviour and collective ownership in a context of, among other things, clear roles and tasks, a stable and competent team, the presence of case managers and facilitating organisational factors such as time for reflection. Theme 2: getting to know and understand each other’s expertise. Actions activated respectful relationships, collective ownership of goals and feeling appreciated for your work in a context of, among other things, team members who meet regularly and management supporting interprofessional working.ConclusionsThis research sheds light on how and in what manner-specific actions contribute to the development of an interprofessional learning and working culture in nursing homes. Depending on the context, the actions triggered the following mechanisms: critical reflective behaviour, collective ownership of goals, respectful/caring relationships and feeling appreciated for your work. These mechanisms are the underlying drivers of an interprofessional learning and working culture. This study provides valuable guidance for fostering collaborative and effective interprofessional dynamics in nursing homes.