Implementation of Simulation-Based Technology to Promote Safety in the Nursing Handover in the Intensive Care Unit

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Patient Safety
• Nursing Communication

Background:

• Communication failures during nursing handover in intensive care units (ICUs) can compromise patient safety.
• Existing educational strategies may not adequately address the complex communication dynamics in critical care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a simulation-based educational technology prototype in improving ICU nurses' awareness and communication during handover.
• To assess the potential of this technology in promoting patient safety.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study using the COREQ guidelines was conducted with 18 ICU nurses in Brazil.
• A simulation video depicting common communication errors in nursing handover was developed and implemented via telesimulation with debriefing.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Nurses recognized communication failures in the simulation as reflective of their daily practice.
• Participants engaged in self-reflection on their errors and identified behavioral changes needed during handover.
• The technology facilitated awareness of content and behavioral errors in communication.

Conclusions:

• The simulation-based technology prototype shows potential for fostering self-reflection and increasing nurses' awareness of necessary behavioral changes in handover.
• This educational strategy can be applied to enhance communication safety in nursing handover, ultimately contributing to improved patient safety.