A Longitudinal Study of the Impact of Schwartz Center Rounds on Moral Distress

Abstract

Moral distress occurs when moral integrity is compromised and can affect any healthcare professional. This study examined the impact of Schwartz Center Rounds (SCRs) on moral distress using a longitudinal, quasi-experimental design to examine SCR attendees from 2015 to 2019. Data were collected via a 2-part survey composed of demographics and Moral Distress Thermometer (MDT) readings before rounds and immediately after rounds. Most participants experienced either no change in moral distress (50.6%) or a decrease in moral distress (33.7%) after attending one of the SCRs. Participants who worked with adult populations had higher moral distress after participation for most topics. An increase in moral distress was associated with a longer time in the current position. Fifty percent of the physicians had a decrease in their moral distress immediately after the rounds. Schwartz Center Rounds is a promising approach to foster high-functioning teams while promoting wellness and mitigating moral distress among employees. Moral DistressResearchers, ethicists, and practitioners have struggled to develop a definition of moral distress that reflects the true meaning of the emotions and effects involved. Jameton 1st introduced the term moral

Moral distress in nurses in developing economies: an integrative literature review

“…This is a consistently arranged meeting where nurses can share and discuss social and emotional issues that are encountered during the care of their patients and families (Schwartz, 1995). This approach has been used to nurture functioning teams while promoting wellness and reducing the experience of moral distress among nurses (Whitehead et al, 2021). Maben et al (2021) concluded that the programme provide staff with a deep thoughtful and confidential environment where nurses speak and acknowledge the part they play in the care of patients.…”