Randomized Study of Bedside vs Hallway Rounding: Neurology Rounding Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Medical Education
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Attending rounds have historically moved away from the patient's bedside.
• Evidence suggests bedside rounds improve patient satisfaction and nursing teamwork perception.
• Neurology lacks clear data on optimal rounding practices, creating uncertainty.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare bedside rounding with hallway rounding in an academic neurology inpatient setting.
• To assess the impact of rounding methods on efficiency, trainee education, and patient/staff satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A single-center prospective randomized study comparing bedside vs. hallway rounding for new neurology admissions.
• Time-motion analysis to evaluate the timing and composition of rounds (primary outcome).
• Surveys administered to patients, nurses, residents, and attending physicians (secondary outcomes).

Main Results:

• Mean rounding time was similar: 23 minutes for bedside vs. 23.2 minutes for hallway (p=0.93).
• Bedside rounding involved significantly more time spent in the patient's room (56.4% vs. 39.5%, p=0.036).
• Residents favored hallway rounds for efficiency and educational experience; nurses preferred bedside rounds.

Conclusions:

• Bedside rounding is as efficient as hallway rounding, increases patient-associated time, and enhances nurse engagement.
• Despite resident preference for hallway rounds due to perceived efficiency and data review, bedside rounds offer distinct benefits.
• Optimal rounding strategies require balancing efficiency with patient-centered care and team collaboration.