Interpersonal Conflicts and Communication among Medical Residents, Nurses and Technologists

Abstract

Through investigating communication contents, extent of conflict, and its causes between medical residents and nurses/technicians, this study will provide the effective communication skills to ease interpersonal conflicts and maintain healthy partner relationships. This is a descriptive study to find out the communication contents, extent of conflicts and its causes between medical residents and nurses/technicians. Data were collected from April , 2004 to April , 2004 from 118 medical residents, 288 nurses, 85 radiology technicians and 107 laboratory technicians in 4 university hospitals in Seoul capital region. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 11.0 using descriptive statistics, ANOVA and chi-test. Interpersonal conflict towards medical residents were rated higher by nurses than technicians (Nurses > Technologists = Medical residents). Causes of conflict showed regional differences. In communication contents, all regions showed "Thank you" and "Well done" as most pleasant comments. Medical residents proved other medical residents’ negative comments as most unpleasant and nurses and technicians proved residents’ commanding phrases, disrespectful speech, and urging comments to be most unpleasant. Communication between the center members of the medical organization is very important in treating patients and understanding each other. For smooth conflict resolutions and maintaining healthy partner relationships, continued education and support for appropriate communication and interpersonal relationship skills is needed.