The PICOT topics must be APPLICABLE TO NURSING, meaning that they involve a NURSING intervention. The prescription of medications is not a nursing intervention. PLEASE do not choose topics, such as medications, medical tests and procedures that nurses cannot influence. Topic: Bedside shift report vs. nurse’s station shift report (Communication/Handoff Report/Reduction of Medical Errors)
Title: Comparing the Effectiveness of Bedside Shift Reports and Nurse’s Station Shift Reports on Communication, Handoff, and Reduction of Medical Errors in Nursing Practice
Introduction:
Effective communication and efficient handoff practices are critical components of nursing practice in ensuring patient safety and quality care delivery. Improving communication during shift change handoffs has gained significant attention in recent years, as it plays a vital role in reducing medical errors and enhancing patient outcomes. One approach being explored is the use of bedside shift reports as an alternative to traditional nurse’s station shift reports. This paper aims to compare the effectiveness of bedside shift reports and nurse’s station shift reports on communication, handoff, and reduction of medical errors in nursing practice.
Background and Rationale:
The traditional nurse’s station shift report typically involves nurses gathering at a central location, such as the nursing station, to exchange information about the patients under their care. However, this method has been criticized for its potential shortcomings, including interruptions, distractions, and limited patient involvement. Bedside shift reports, on the other hand, involve the transfer of patient information at the patient’s bedside with the participation of both the outgoing and incoming nurses, as well as the patient and their family members, when appropriate.
Bedside shift reports have gained recognition as a patient-centered approach to shift handoffs, promoting transparency and accountability in care provision. By involving patients and their families in the handoff process, bedside shift reports aim to improve communication, enhance patient satisfaction, increase patient safety, and reduce medical errors. This approach presents an opportunity for nurses to engage patients in their care, provide education, and foster a therapeutic relationship.
Objective:
The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of bedside shift reports and nurse’s station shift reports in facilitating communication, quality handoff, and reducing medical errors in nursing practice. The findings from this research will contribute to the evidence base on innovative strategies for improving patient safety and enhancing the overall quality of care provided by nurses during shift handoffs.
Methodology:
This study will utilize a comparative design to examine the impact of bedside shift reports and nurse’s station shift reports on various outcome measures related to communication, handoff, and medical errors. The study will be conducted in a large acute care hospital setting and will involve a sample of registered nurses working on various units, such as medical-surgical, critical care, and pediatrics.
A convenience sampling approach will be used to recruit participants who are willing to participate in the study. Participants will be assigned to either the intervention group (bedside shift reports) or the control group (nurse’s station shift reports) based on their assigned work shift. The intervention group will undergo training on the bedside shift reporting process, including communication techniques and strategies to engage patients and their families. The control group will continue with their usual nurse’s station shift reports.
Data collection will be conducted using a mixed-method approach. Quantitative data will be collected using standardized tools and surveys to assess communication effectiveness, handoff quality, and frequency of medical errors. Qualitative data will be collected through focus groups and individual interviews to gain insights into the experiences and perceptions of nurses, patients, and family members regarding the different shift reporting modalities.
Data analysis will involve both descriptive and inferential statistics for quantitative data, including t-tests, chi-square tests, and regression analyses. Qualitative data will be analyzed using thematic analysis, employing an iterative process to identify key themes and patterns within the data.
Expected Results:
It is anticipated that bedside shift reports will lead to improved communication, enhanced handoff quality, increased patient satisfaction, and a reduction in medical errors compared to nurse’s station shift reports. The involvement of patients and their families in the handoff process during bedside shift reports is likely to promote patient engagement, empowerment, and a sense of ownership in their care, resulting in improved outcomes.
Conclusion:
This study aims to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of bedside shift reports in comparison to nurse’s station shift reports in facilitating communication, handoff, and reducing medical errors in nursing practice. The findings of this research will contribute to informing nursing practice, policy, and education regarding the optimization of handoff processes, patient involvement, and communication strategies during shift change handoffs. Ultimately, this research has the potential to significantly impact patient safety, healthcare quality, and the overall well-being of patients in the healthcare system.