Implementing a perioperative handoff tool to improve postprocedural patient transfers.

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Patient Care
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Handoffs during patient transfer from the operating room (OR) to postanesthesia care unit (PACU) or intensive care unit (ICU) are critical but understudied.
• Ineffective handoffs can lead to medical errors and compromised patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe a novel perioperative handoff tool designed to standardize patient transfers.
• To enhance communication and safety during the transition from procedural care to postprocedural care.

Main Methods:

• Development of a perioperative handoff tool incorporating a protocol and checklists.
• The tool includes a defined process, team structure, technology transfer procedure, and essential information elements.

Main Results:

• The tool provides a structured approach to OR-to-ICU/PACU patient handoffs.
• It aims to ensure comprehensive information exchange between care teams.

Conclusions:

• The developed perioperative handoff tool can improve patient safety and care continuity.
• This standardized approach is adaptable to various periprocedural settings requiring patient transfer.