Consensus on the definition and attributes of person‐centered teamwork: An e‐Delphi study

Background Effective health care relies on person‐centeredness and teamwork, which are known to improve outcomes. These two concepts have been defined individually, but we could not find a definition of the combined concept. A preliminary definition was developed through a concept analysis; however, consensus on the concept has not been reached. Aim The aim of this study was to reach consensus on the definition and attributes of person‐centered teamwork. Methods A consensus design allowed experts to collaborate and share their experience and wisdom to refine and reach consensus on the definition and attributes of person‐centered teamwork. An e‐Delphi was used to engage the experts. Results Three rounds of online engagement with 12 experts were needed to reach consensus on the definition and attributes of person‐centered teamwork. The attributes reached consensus of 82% after the first round. The definition had 82% consensus after the three rounds. The definition had been adjusted and refined according to the expert input. The newly adjusted definition was established. Linking Evidence to Action We successfully used the e‐Delphi method to obtain consensus on the attributes and definition of person‐centered teamwork. The definition of person‐centered teamwork can be further developed and included in clinical practice to guide improved clinical outcomes. The consensus definition of person‐centered teamwork provides a clear understanding of the meaning thereof, which may in turn enrich the usability thereof in clinical practice. Person‐centered teams improve outcomes for persons receiving care in hospitals. Building person‐centered teams are now better understood and the foundation of building these teams defined. We engaged with 12 experts in the academic and clinical field of person‐centeredness and teamwork. The use and value of the Delphi method to obtain consensus is now better understood and can assist future research development.