HANDING OVER A WARD

REQUIREMENTS #

1. The following manual or electronic documents: 1 24 Hourly report book
2. Patient’s folders
3. Patient observation charts
4. Ward state
5. Nurse’s changes book
6. Other relevant documents (based on facility protocol)

STEPS #

1. Welcome the in-coming nurse
2. Give ward reports on patients to in-coming nurse to read
3. Enquire from in-coming nurse if she needs further explanation on occurrences on the ward
4. Hand over sensitive information about patients at the nurses’ station
5. Move to the bedside of the patient
6. Together with incoming nurse, interact with patient while handing over
7. Check and confirm information about patients’ on the charts and notes
8. Check condition of patient whether stable improving or deteriorating
9. Check with incoming nurse if gadgets on patients are functioning e.g. cardiac monitor, oxygen flow metre etc.
10. Check on any drainage tubes if they are draining well and record the amount if necessary e.g. intravenous line, catheter, NG tubes etc.
11. Check and hand over controlled medication and other relevant consumables available
12. Inspect the ward annexes and ensure they are clean and tidy
13. Hand over ward annexes to in-coming nurse
14. Report on any defects on equipment and request made for urgent repairs
15. Report on departmental instructions and other important information