15. Shared Decision Making

Like all other aspects of care, the planning and process of a ward round and any follow-up should be guided by a process of Shared Decision Making. This is also stated in the guidelines.

Shared Decision Making is defined by the NHS as ‘a process in which clinicians and patients work together to select tests, treatments, management or support packages, based on clinical evidence and the patient’s informed preferences'. This should always be the guiding principle underlying the planning and conduct of a ward round meeting.

Shared Decision Making is a broad and detailed topic to find out more please use the link at the end of this resource to access our Shared Decision Making learning resource.