Page 58 - 2022 Risk Basics - Systems

SVMIC Risk Basics: Systems

Handoffs

As part of its standard of provision of care, treatment, and services, The
Joint Commission requires that the “process for handoff communication

provides for the opportunity for discussion between the giver and the
.
receiver of patient information” Consideration should be given to the
14
implementation of a standardized approach for handoff communication.
Patient handoffs are a significant challenge in healthcare due to the sheer

number of handoffs (often in an urgent or emergent situation) lack of
a standardized protocol, ineffective communication skills, distractions,

interruptions, timing, and lack of time or staff.

“The consequences of substandard handoffs may include

delay in treatment, inappropriate treatment, adverse

events, omission of care, increased hospital length of stay,

avoidable readmissions, increased costs, inefficiency from

rework, and other minor or major patient harm.”

- joint commission center for transforming healthcare

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the

handoff process should include the following:

• Interactive communications (include the patient and family in the

process)

• Limited interruptions (reduce noise, avoid competing priorities)

14 The Joint Commission. Comprehensive accreditation manual. CAMH for hospitals: the official handbook.
Oakbrook Terrace (IL): Joint Commission; 2010

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