The “Dance” Continues ... Evaluating Differences in Call Bell Use Between Patients in Private Rooms and Patients in Double Rooms Using Ethnography

Staff response to patient call bells is a communication issue that influences patient assessment of care quality and satisfaction. An ethnographic, grounded theory approach was used to examine nurses and nursing support staff perspectives about call bell use on single- versus double-patient-room units. We used the dance metaphor to describe differences in staff behaviors related to answering call bells on the 2 units in the study. Unit culture as exemplified by an enhanced call bell system and a relationship-centered leadership style were associated with a well- choreographed call bell answering process that promoted safety and patient satisfaction.