Can We Talk? The Bedside Report Project

Are Patients and Family Members an Essential Aspect of Bedside Handoff?

“…One intensive care unit incorporated patient and family questions into the end of the structured bedside handoff to address any patient preferences and concerns. 5 Many of you may have successfully implemented bedside handoff report involving patients and family members, but others have not.…”

“…8 Staff at one pediatric intensive care unit with a successful bedside handoff program worked around some of these concerns by discussing any sensitive issues outside of the patient's room at the end of each handoff. 5 Many benefits have been associated with bedside handoff involving patients and family, including increased patient and family satisfaction, perception of better care, and an improved understanding of the patient's condition. 5,8 Researchers found an increase in trust and knowledge by the patients and family and a perception that staff respected their needs.…”

“…5 Many benefits have been associated with bedside handoff involving patients and family, including increased patient and family satisfaction, perception of better care, and an improved understanding of the patient's condition. 5,8 Researchers found an increase in trust and knowledge by the patients and family and a perception that staff respected their needs. 8 In a few studies, investigators found an association between bedside handoff and improved patient outcomes, such as a decrease in patient fall events and medication errors, attributed to improved communication after implementation of bedside handoff.…”

“…8 In a few studies, investigators found an association between bedside handoff and improved patient outcomes, such as a decrease in patient fall events and medication errors, attributed to improved communication after implementation of bedside handoff. 5,8 Investigators have reported a decrease in the time taken to complete handoff when it is performed at the bedside, 8 possibly related to staying on task and having fewer interruptions when joined by patients and family members. Nurses reported an increase in their own satisfaction following the implementation of bedside handoff, citing improved teamwork and work environment, and improved communication with colleagues and patients.…”

“…Nurses reported an increase in their own satisfaction following the implementation of bedside handoff, citing improved teamwork and work environment, and improved communication with colleagues and patients. 5,8 Staff in one unit found that sustainability of bedside rounding is an ongoing challenge, despite favorable outcomes for patients, families, and nurses. 5 Bedside report is about more than who knows the patient best, it is about sharing information and learning to trust and respect each other.…”