Main barriers to effective handoffs identified

Healthcare Benchmarks Qual Improv. 2006 Feb;13(2):17-9.

Abstract

Distractions such as lighting and background noise can significantly impair communications. Leaders must empower interns to raise appropriate questions with more senior staff. Authors recommend incorporation of handoff tools into existing information technology systems.

MeSH terms

  • Continuity of Patient Care / standards*
  • Health Services Research
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication*
  • Internship and Residency / standards
  • Medical Records Systems, Computerized
  • Medical Staff, Hospital / standards
  • Patient Care Team
  • Patient Transfer / standards*
  • United States