Clinical handover

Clinical Handover

Communicative people

Clinical handover refers to the process of transferring responsibility and accountability for patient care from one healthcare provider to another. This process is critical in ensuring continuity of care and minimizing the risk of errors. Effective clinical handover involves the accurate and timely exchange of information about a patient's condition, treatment, and any anticipated changes.

Importance

Clinical handover is a vital component of healthcare delivery. It ensures that critical information is communicated between healthcare providers, which is essential for maintaining patient safety. Poor handover practices can lead to misunderstandings, omissions, and errors, potentially resulting in adverse patient outcomes. Therefore, structured handover processes are recommended to enhance communication and reduce risks.

Methods

Several methods and tools have been developed to improve the quality of clinical handovers. These include:

• SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation): A structured method for communicating critical information that requires immediate attention and action.
• ISBAR (Introduction, Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation): An extension of SBAR that includes an introduction to establish the identity of the person giving the handover.
• Handover sheets: Written documents that summarize key patient information and are used during the handover process.
• Electronic handover tools: Digital systems that facilitate the transfer of patient information between healthcare providers.

Challenges

Several challenges can affect the effectiveness of clinical handovers, including:

• Time constraints: Healthcare providers often have limited time to conduct thorough handovers, especially in busy clinical settings.
• Variability in practice: Differences in handover practices between departments or institutions can lead to inconsistencies in information transfer.
• Communication barriers: Language differences, hierarchical structures, and interpersonal dynamics can impede effective communication.

Strategies for Improvement

To improve clinical handovers, healthcare organizations can implement the following strategies:

• Standardization: Developing and implementing standardized handover protocols to ensure consistency.
• Training: Providing training for healthcare providers on effective communication and handover techniques.
• Use of technology: Leveraging electronic health records and other digital tools to support information transfer.
• Feedback mechanisms: Establishing systems for feedback and continuous improvement of handover processes.

Related Pages

• Patient safety
• Healthcare communication
• Medical error
• Continuity of care