Association of a web-based handoff tool with rates of medical errors. | AHRQ Patient Safety Network

Association of a web-based handoff tool with rates of medical errors. | AHRQ Patient Safety Network



Implementing a standardized web-based handoff tool, combined with formal handoff training, led to fewer errors.
JAMA Intern Med. 2016 Aug 1; [Epub ahead of print].

• Study
 
• Published August 2016

Association of a web-based handoff tool with rates of medical errors.

Mueller SK, Yoon C, Schnipper JL. JAMA Intern Med. 2016 Aug 1; [Epub ahead of print].

Handoffs have been associated with adverse clinical events, largely due to communication failures. Studies have shown that implementing a standardized handoff bundle and providing communication training can both improve patient safety. In this prospective cohort study, investigators introduced a web-based handoff tool and provided formal training for health care workers in adult medical and surgical units. They found a statistically significant decrease in the rate of medical errors, particularly errors caused by communication failures and handoff mistakes. This study suggests that a web-based standardized tool may help mitigate errors associated with current handoff practices, especially errors that result from poor communication. A PSNet interview discussed standardization of handoffs.

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