Disparities in Risk Perception: A Comparison Between Medical and Non-medical Professionals Using Propensity Score Matching

TL;DR

This study compares how medical and non-medical professionals perceive risks in healthcare settings, finding significant differences that could impact patient care.

Contribution

The study uses propensity score matching to reveal distinct risk perception patterns between nurses and non-medical professionals.

Findings

Non-medical professionals had higher risk perception scores for falls, pressure ulcers, and infections compared to nurses.

Nurses showed greater acceptance of uncertainty and family accompaniment practices during hospitalization.

The developed risk perception scale showed good validity and reliability with a cumulative contribution rate of 74%.

Abstract

Introduction

Disparities in risk perception between non-medical professionals and nurses can affect interdisciplinary communication and decision-making in healthcare. In this study, we explored these differences with a focus on the risks during hospitalization, infection risks, and family accompaniment to inform strategies for improving patient-centered care.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted using a propensity score-matched sample of 826 participants in Japan, including 413 non-medical professionals and 413 nurses. A structured questionnaire was used to assess perceptions of risks related to falls, pressure ulcers, delirium, infection, and family accompaniment during hospitalization. Factor analysis was used to evaluate the validity and reliability of the scale, and t-tests were used to compare group differences.

Results

The developed scale demonstrated a cumulative contribution rate of 74%, with good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.892 for the first factor). Significant differences were observed between the groups for all parameters (p < 0.001). Non-medical professionals exhibited higher risk perception scores for falls, pressure ulcers, and infections, reflecting a lower tolerance for clinical risks than nurses. Conversely, nurses displayed greater acceptance of uncertainty and family accompaniment practices.

Conclusions

This study highlights the persistent differences in risk perceptions between non-medical professionals and nurses and emphasizes the need for interventions to bridge these gaps. Addressing the mechanisms of uncertainty and distress and fostering interdisciplinary communication is essential for improving collaborative care and patient outcomes. In the future, researchers should explore the factors driving these differences and develop strategies to align the perceptions of healthcare stakeholders.

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