Introduction
Tacit knowledge is an important resource in any organization. It is the knowledge that is difficult to articulate and communicate to others. In a hospital setting, tacit knowledge sharing barriers can have serious implications on patient care. This qualitative study aims to assess the barriers to sharing tacit knowledge in a hospital setting.
Methodology
This study involved semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals working in a hospital setting. The participants were chosen using purposive sampling, with a focus on those with specific expertise and experiences. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, and data was analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
The analysis revealed several barriers to sharing tacit knowledge in a hospital setting. The most significant barrier was the lack of trust among colleagues. Healthcare professionals were hesitant to share their knowledge with others due to fear of being criticized or judged. Other barriers included time constraints, lack of organizational support, and the complexity of tacit knowledge itself.
Discussion
The findings of this study emphasize the importance of trust in promoting tacit knowledge sharing. Hospital administrators should prioritize building a culture of trust and collaboration among healthcare professionals. This can be achieved through team-building activities, open communication channels, and recognition of individual expertise. Additionally, organizational support in terms of resources and time can alleviate the barriers to sharing tacit knowledge.
Conclusion
Sharing tacit knowledge is essential for delivering high-quality healthcare services. However, barriers to sharing such information exist in a hospital setting. This study emphasizes the need for building a culture of trust and collaboration among healthcare professionals to promote tacit knowledge sharing. Hospital administrators should prioritize this issue to ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care.