Page 47 - 2021 Risk Reduction Series - Communication Part One

SVMIC Risk Reduction Series: Communication

that this discussion is “strictly off the record”. While consistently

establishing these parameters as part of the communication
won’t guarantee that the consulting physician won’t ever be

exposed to potential liability, they do provide him or her with a
basis for a defense later, if needed.

Communicating the Handoff

Another communication problem that occurs happens during

the handoff of the patient. 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
12
the 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 urgent or emergent

situations), the 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

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

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