Experiences of ICU nurses on interprofessional collaboration at Scottish Livingstone hospital, Botswana.

This study explored the experiences of intensive care unit nurses regarding interprofessional collaboration at Scottish Livingstone Hospital in Molepolole, Botswana. Using a descriptive phenomenological design, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten purposively selected Intensive Care Unit nurses. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: nurses' lived experiences of interprofessional collaboration, facilitators of collaboration, barriers to collaboration, and coping strategies alongside recommendations for improvement. While nurses demonstrated a shared conceptual understanding of collaboration as a team-based, patient-centered approach, they reported being routinely excluded from decision-making processes, experiencing poor communication, and facing professional disrespect from other disciplines. Barriers, including hierarchical power dynamics, communication gaps, and staffing shortages, undermined effective teamwork. However, positive factors such as mutual respect, shared goals, Open Communication Channels, and inclusive ward rounds facilitated collaboration. To cope, nurses relied on emotional resilience, spiritual faith, peer bonding, persistent follow-ups, and documentation of incidents. Participants strongly recommended structured interprofessional education, clearer role definitions, inclusive leadership, and team-building initiatives to improve collaboration. The findings highlight the complex, often strained nature of interprofessional collaboration in resource-limited Intensive Care Units and offer practical insights for improving teamwork, professional relationships, and ultimately, patient care in Botswana.
Keywords: Experience of an ICU nurse, Interprofessional Collaboration, Scottish Livingstone Hospital, ICU Nurses.