Faculty, Resident, and Nursing Attitudes Regarding Transitions of Care of Antepartum, Postpartum, and Gynecology Patients in the County Hospital Setting

Date

2017-03-14

Authors

Hoang, Christine
Jackson, Angalene
Marshall, Hayley

ORCID

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate attitudes about a transition of care system and identify opportunities to improve the safety and quality of care involving antepartum, postpartum, and gynecology patients. Background: Handoffs and transitions of care have been a central part of patient safety goals at John Peter Smith Hospital. With twice daily shift changes for physician and nurses, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology introduced a new interdisciplinary team transition of care system. Initial anecdotal feedback suggested that the handoff process was suboptimal and communication efforts could be improved. A survey was developed to evaluate opinions about the process and identify areas for improvement. Methods: An anonymous online survey was administered to physicians and nurses participating in the new handoff system. The results were analyzed to identify opportunities for improvement. Results: Responses were analyzed from 21 members of the interdisciplinary team. 47% of the respondents found the transition of care system helpful. 55% felt their goals for handoffs were accomplished. All respondents reported importance in addressing updates on patient plans of care and anticipated discharge dates. Content of handoffs should focus on the acute and critically ill patients. The attending physician, chief resident, and nursing team leaders should participate in the handoff process. Conclusions: Differences in goals and content focus between nurses and physician contributed to suboptimal communication and handoffs. Identifying the deficits allow opportunities for improvement in transitioning care and ultimately the safe and quality of care provided to patients. Participation in the process should include faculty physicians, chief residents, and nursing leaders.

Description

Keywords

Citation

Collections