[Physicians' rounds on the wards in light of research literature]

Physicians' rounds have traditionally been used to assess and plan patients' treatments and to teach medical students. According to the studies analysed in the review, patients have mostly been satisfied with the information received in the course of the physicians' rounds and eager to be involved in planning and decision-making concerning their treatment. The development challenges are related to improving the confidentiality of information. Interaction between doctor, patient and nurse is slight, as is the involvement of nurses in processing matters. Various checklists would make rounds more systematic. Despite their essentially passive role, medical students see that rounds create useful learning environments.