Patient handoffs: pediatric resident experiences and lessons learned

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Housestaff Education
• Patient Handoff Systems
• Clinical Communication

Background:

• Limited research exists on pediatric resident handoff systems.
• Effective patient handoffs are critical for continuity of care in pediatrics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current state of pediatric resident handoff practices.
• To identify challenges and barriers in pediatric resident patient sign-outs.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was administered to pediatric housestaff.
• Survey data was collected from 77 out of 139 eligible residents in September 2007.

Main Results:

• 73% of residents experienced uncertainty due to incomplete verbal handoffs.
• Interruptions and housestaff fatigue were significant barriers to effective sign-outs.
• Only 19% of written sign-outs accurately reflected current patient information.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric housestaff perceive handoffs as vital but often incomplete.
• Current handoff methods present challenges impacting patient care quality.
• Developing standardized, protected handoff environments and addressing fatigue is recommended.