Bedside Handover Case Study

According to the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare or ACSQHC, it has been estimated that up to 70% of errors and adverse event involve poor communication during handover (Australian Commission on Safety & Quality in Healthcare, 2012). By exploring different studies, it will provide a better understanding on the efficacy of bedside handover utilising ISBAR framework. The ACSQHC described the bedside handover as an interactive communication between nurses and patient through the gathering of relevant information in providing continuity of care (Australian Commission on Safety & Quality in Healthcare, 2012). Our hospital has just started implementing a standardised tool for bedside handover, which has created doubts in its effectiveness. …show more content…
It has been emphasised by ACSQHC that bedside handover is very important, because it is a time when vital information about a patient is handed over to an incoming nurse. Furthermore, the ACSQHC identified that if bedside handover is practised, it can minimise or prevent communication errors and will achieve patient satisfaction and safety ((Australian Commission on Safety & Quality in Healthcare, 2012). It can be achieved by using Identity, Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation or ISBAR framework to deliver a clear communication. As defined by the World Health Organisation or WHO, ISBAR is the tool for an effective communication among patients and healthcare provider (WHO, 2016). If the implementation of an ISBAR tool is not maximise during bedside handover, there will be consequences that can result to the dissatisfaction of the patient, such as a delay in the treatment and diagnosis of the