The Importance of Time and Positive Behaviors in Pediatric Consultations
Author Information
Author(s): Hansson Mats G, Kihlbom Ulrik, Tuvemo Torsten, Olsen Leif A, Rodriguez Alina
Primary Institution: Centre for Bioethics at Karolinska Institutet and Uppsala University
Hypothesis
Time spent in pediatric consultations is important for ethical practice.
Conclusion
More time spent in consultations and positive physician behaviors lead to better ethical practice ratings.
Supporting Evidence
- Consultations lasted less than 20 minutes, with most under 10 minutes.
- Positive nonverbal behaviors were associated with higher ratings of ethical practice.
- Time spent post-examination was most important for ethical ratings.
- Physician gender influenced understanding and decision-making ratings.
- Child age was related to respect for integrity ratings.
Takeaway
Doctors need to spend enough time with kids during check-ups and be nice to them to make sure they feel respected and understood.
Methodology
21 pediatric consultations were video recorded and analyzed for physician behaviors and consultation duration.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the presence of medical students and the subjective nature of observer ratings.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and focused only on one type of medical case.
Participant Demographics
Patients were mostly healthy children under four years old, with a majority being male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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