The nurse identifies which statement to be accurate regarding the process of making a change-of-shift report (handoff)?
A) Handoff is an uncommon occurrence of little importance.
B) Handoff occurs only at change of shift and only to oncoming nurses.
C) Handoff can lead to patient death if done incorrectly.
D) Handoff does not allow for collaboration or problem solving.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An ineffective handoff may lead to wrong treatments, wrong medications, or other life-threatening events, increasing the length of stay and causing patient injury or death. Improvement in the hand-off process can increase patient safety and promote positive patient outcomes. The hand-off process can be an opportunity for collaborative problem solving. During an average hospital stay of approximately 4 days, as many as 24 handoffs can occur for just one patient because shifts change every 8 to 12 hours and many individuals are responsible for care.

The Nurse Identifies Which Statement to Be Accurate Regarding the Process