Rehabilitation practice: challenges to effective team working

Effective rehabilitation depends on multiple inputs from a variety of skilled multi-professional team members. This paper explores perceptions of the nurse's role within the multi-professional rehabilitation team and challenges for effective team working. It draws on findings from a 2-year qualitative study exploring the role of the nurse within rehabilitation. Substantial differences in the nurse's role were evident, depending on their and others' perceptions, especially in relation to the nurse's carry-on role. Many nurses felt their contributions were not valued and others desired greater reciprocity within the team. Blurring of role boundaries could bring benefits to clients but also led to professional tensions and rivalry.