What method can a CNO use to reduce inter-professional rivalries with volunteer ambulance services (VAS)?

The choice of having Emergency Department (ED) staff and Volunteer Ambulance Services (VAS) shadow each other is an effective way to reduce inter-professional rivalries. This method encourages collaboration and understanding between the two groups by allowing them to observe each other's roles, challenges, and contributions to patient care firsthand. By participating in each other's environments, ED staff can gain insights into the procedures and limitations that ambulance personnel face, while VAS members can learn about the operational processes within the ED.

This approach fosters communication and builds relationships, which are crucial for teamwork in healthcare settings. By working together closely, both parties can discuss issues openly, share knowledge, and develop mutual respect, ultimately leading to improved collaboration in emergency response situations.

While requiring VAS to attend ED meetings or developing standardized symptom checklists may enhance coordination to some extent, these methods do not facilitate the same level of interaction and personal understanding that shadowing would provide. Similarly, recommending funding for equipment might assist VAS operationally but does not address interpersonal dynamics that can lead to rivalry.