On 21st February 2024 there was an online Schwartz round for students from a variety of University Of Brighton healthcare courses. The session was led by two facilitators and enabled people to all come together in a safe space to listen to the storytellers and then reflect on stories shared and share personal experiences if you wanted to.
“The purpose of Rounds is to explore the challenges and rewards that are intrinsic to providing care, not to solve problems or to focus on the clinical aspects of patient care. Rounds can help staff feel more supported in their jobs, allowing them the time and space to reflect on their roles” – The Point of Care Foundation
There was a brilliant turn out of participants at the round, with around 80 people on the teams meeting which emphasised the success of the promotional work done before the round, and perhaps the volume of people was influenced by the fact it was on teams. Being on teams made it very convenient and accessible for people to be able to attend. Also, some people may feel safer to attend in their home environment as the topics can be sensitive. Using an online approach could take away the personal human-touch, and this is important for Schwartz rounds to express emotions and acknowledge each other’s body language. However, from feedback from peers and personal thoughts, I feel like the round was very effective and having both online and in person rounds throughout the year offers variety.
The round started with a message for people to get comfortable, and then clear instructions from the facilitators of how the session will run, some background information of the Schwartz rounds and a breathing exercise. This created a calm, safe space.
There were two speakers for the theme ‘I raised a concern’. Both stories were very different and emotional, and I felt that it was very brave of both speakers to share their stories. It gave me an insight into how situations can make you feel very vulnerable and isolated, but a reminder that you are not alone, and many people face similar situations due to the nature of a high-pressured healthcare system and complex work environments. Listening to the speakers also was a great reminder to utilise support services within the workplace to raise concerns and not suffer in silence.
After the speakers had shared their stories, the audience was able to share thoughts and feelings in the chat and speak out loud if they liked. Some emotive conversations were had, and I felt like the stories allowed the audience to be vulnerable and reflect on personal experiences.
Overall, I thought the round was very powerful and effective. I have been to a Schwartz round before, but going again reminded me how different topics can trigger different thoughts and feelings. I feel that going forward – going to Schwartz rounds regularly will be beneficial to help me feel supported in my role. The calm, smooth facilitation of the round also makes me feel more persuaded to attend again. I look forward to going again and reflecting on a variety of topics!