Abstract
Background: Effective communication, including the complete and accurate transfer of information and the prevention of misrepresentation and misinterpretation of patient-centered data during handoff, can enhance the quality of patient care and safety.
Purpose: This study was aimed at evaluating the impact of bedside handoff using the Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation (SBAR) technique, on the quality of nursing care.
Methods: The Quality Patient Care Scale (QUALPACS) was completed by the patient while nurses performed a verbal bedside shift handoff and after receiving education on the purpose and proper use of the SBAR communication tool.
Results: The mean age of subjects was 51.29 +/- 8.02 years. We found a significant increase in the mean score of QUALPACS dimensions, namely psychosocial (P < .001), physical (P < .001), and communication (P < .001) after SBAR implementation.
Conclusions: Findings suggest that using the SBAR handoff technique increases the quality of nursing care in all QUALPACS dimensions.