Shared mental models in postpartum hemorrhage management: a dual center multidisciplinary survey.

BACKGROUND

Postpartum hemorrhage requires multidisciplinary teamwork, yet the role of shared mental models remains understudied.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted April-May 2025 at two hospitals in Houston, Texas. Obstetricians, anesthesiologists, and nurses completed a survey assessing perceived shared mental models and perceived delays in postpartum hemorrhage management. A card-sorting activity assessed task responsibility agreement. Shared mental model scores ranged from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating stronger alignment. Linear regression evaluated the association between perceived shared mental models and perceived delays. Data is presented as mean ± standard deviation.

RESULTS

The response rate was 62.6% (114/182). Mean shared mental model scores differed among anesthesiologists 3.14 ± 0.53, nurses 4.00 ± 0.60, and obstetricians 4.28 ± 0.58; (ANOVA, P <0.001). Higher scores were associated with fewer perceived delays (β = 0.45, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.58; P <0.001). Task agreement ranged from 44.9% to 95.7%.

CONCLUSION

Stronger shared mental models were associated with fewer perceived delays, while variable task agreement suggested role ambiguity. Future work should assess the objective impact on patient outcomes.