A Qualitative Analysis of Shift Handoff Communication Practices Among Tele-ICU Clinicians

Area of Science:

• Healthcare communication
• Intensive care unit (ICU) management
• Telemedicine

Background:

• Shift handoff communication (SHC) is critical for patient safety in intensive care units (ICUs).
• Tele-ICU models present unique challenges for SHC due to remote care delivery.
• Understanding clinician experiences is vital for optimizing Tele-ICU operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Tele-ICU clinicians' perceptions of shift handoff communication (SHC).
• To identify challenges faced by Tele-ICU clinicians during SHC.
• To inform improvements in Tele-ICU communication protocols.

Main Methods:

• A phenomenological interpretive study was conducted.
• The study explored the lived experiences of Tele-ICU intensivists.
• The research was based at a Tele-ICU center in the Midwest region of the United States.

Main Results:

• Five key themes emerged: variabilities in SHC, information discrepancies, preference for standardized SHC, varied attitudes toward SHC, and communication barriers.
• Clinicians reported inconsistencies in information exchange during handoffs.
• A significant preference for standardized SHC processes was identified.

Conclusions:

• Tele-ICU providers often function as remote care coordinators, necessitating clear role delineation.
• The absence of case manager involvement during night shifts requires further investigation.
• Effective SHC is crucial in Tele-ICU settings to ensure seamless patient care transitions and multidisciplinary team collaboration.