Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 10, 2026
Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide
Published on: January 15, 2017
Impact of Structured Rounding Tools on Time Allocation During Multidisciplinary Rounds: An Observational Study
Joanna Abraham1, Thomas G Kannampallil2, Vimla L Patel3
1Department of Biomedical and Health Information Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
Background:
Recent research has shown evidence of disproportionate time allocation for patient communication during multidisciplinary rounds (MDRs). Studies have shown that patients discussed later during rounds receive lesser time.
Objective:
The aim of our study was to investigate whether disproportionate time allocation effects persist with the use of structured rounding tools.
Methods:
Using audio recordings of rounds (N=82 patients), we compared time allocation and communication breakdowns between a problem-based Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan (SOAP) and a system-based Handoff Intervention Tool (HAND-IT) rounding tools.
Results:
We found no significant linear dependence of the order of patient presentation on the time spent or on communication breakdowns for both structured tools. However, for the problem-based tool, there was a significant linear relationship between the time spent on discussing a patient and the number of communication breakdowns (P<.05)--with an average of 1.04 additional breakdowns with every 120 seconds in discussion.
Conclusions:
The use of structured rounding tools potentially mitigates disproportionate time allocation and communication breakdowns during rounds, with the more structured HAND-IT, almost completely eliminating such effects. These results have potential implications for planning, prioritization, and training for time management during MDRs.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Methods of Documentation IV: Focus Charting
It typically involves three columns for recording information:
01:21Methods of Documentation III: PIE
01:26Methods of Documentation II: POMR
01:15Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model
For example, a patient with a chronic...
01:25Assessment of apical radial pulse
The A-R pulse assessment involves simultaneous evaluation of the apical and radial pulses. When the apical and radial pulse rates vary, this assessment helps identify a pulse deficit.
Pre-Procedural Preparation
01:14SBAR II: Application of SBAR
SBAR Report from a Nurse to a Health Care Provider
S: "Hello, Dr. Smith. This is Jane, RN, from the Med Surg unit. I am calling to tell you about Ms. White in Room 210, who is experiencing increased pain and redness at her incision site. Her recent...