Date of this Version

2023

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

An adequate anesthesia handoff detailing vital components valuable to the continuing care of the patient is necessary to provide safe post-operative care.

Background

Patients undergoing general anesthesia are at significant risk for adverse events in the postoperative period, and the transfer of care from the anesthesia provider to the post-anesthesia care unit nurse is a critical time in a patient's hospital stay. Communication between the releasing and receiving providers must be clear, concise, and complete, showcasing teamwork and a shared goal of patient safety. The purpose of this project is to address the problem of variances in anesthesia handover. The lack of a standardized handover process creates an opportunity for poor handover, compromising patient safety.

Method

This quality improvement project was performed using a pre-test and post-test to assess the knowledge level and attitudes toward anesthesia handoff among anesthesia providers at a Level 1 trauma center in South Florida. The providers voluntarily participated in a pre-survey followed by an educational module, then a post-survey, all provided to them via an anonymous emailed invitation. The data from both surveys were statistically analyzed to determine the educational modules' effectiveness and impact on clinical personnel.

Results

Upon completion of the educational module, there was a noted increase in knowledge of the importance of adequate anesthesia handoff among participants. Based on the results, participants expressed a willingness to adapt a standardized handoff protocol to their current practice. This coincides with the results of the literature review in which the addition of a standardized anesthesia handover protocol offers valuable benefits to patient safety.

Discussion

Clear communication during the transfer of care is essential to a seamless transition for the patient. A standardized handover tool sets the stage for a well-structured handover process to ensue, thus making it a valuable tool to employ at this South Florida Trauma Center. Effective handoffs are detrimental to ensuring the safety, quality, and continuity of patient care. Although handoffs are common in healthcare, there is an extensive degree of variation in terms of the structure of the report and the type of information included. Based on the feedback received, the anesthesia providers there are in full support of endorsing a handover tool and offer their

cooperation should a protocol be adapted. Limitations to this study include a small sample size and limited cooperation.

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