Implementation of Standardized Handoff Reporting to Improve Communication Between Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and Registered Nurses in the Post-anesthesia Care Unit

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Alisha Bracken (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Vadim Korogoda

Abstract: Background: Communication failures during transfer of patient care are identified as a primary cause of medical errors. Poor communication and incomplete transfer of information contribute to patient morbidity and mortality and threaten patient safety. Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project was to implement standardized handoff reporting between CRNAs and PACU nurses during the post-operative transfer of patients to the PACU. Methods: Pre-intervention observation of patient handoff in PACU measured transfer of information from CRNAs to PACU nurses. A handoff tool was introduced for use during bedside report for three weeks. A post-intervention observation of patient handoff measured transfer of information when using the handoff tool. A pre- and post-intervention survey measured staff satisfaction with standardized patient handoff report. Results: Transfer of information increased from 63% complete pre-intervention to 78% complete with use of the handoff tool. One hundred percent of staff surveyed agreed that standardized handoff checklists decrease omissions in handoff report and staff satisfaction with patient handoff increased by 30%. Recommendations and Conclusion: The use of a standardized handoff tool during perioperative transfer of care can enhance transfer of information and staff satisfaction with handoff, ultimately leading to enhanced patient care outcomes. As such, it is recommended that healthcare providers implement a standardized handoff tool to optimize perioperative transfer of care.

Additional Information

Publication
Other
Language: English
Date: 2024
Keywords
handoff tool, standardized handoff report, perioperative handoff

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