nursing handover guidelines nmc 2024-2025
nursing handover guidelines nmc 2024-2025
One of the most significant parts of the nursing day is the handover. No matter where you work, the same rule applies: chaos will ensue if the right-hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing. The most important aspect of the handover to keep in mind is that, if everything goes according to plan, the new employees will be able to pick up where you left off, confident that they will be aware of what is expected of them, and ready to be fill in any gaps.
Never rush
The first rule of handover is to not do it too quickly or too late, or else people will be unhappy waiting to go home. Give yourself enough time for your nursing specialty to gather all of the necessary information. We all work in various settings, so this could take 10 minutes or 45 minutes.
Value questions
Before moving on to the next patient, create a setting for the handover where patients are encouraged to ask questions.
Share team news
It’s a wonderful chance to work well as a team, which means “handing over” information like Julie’s birthday and Sarah’s retirement, among other things.
Avoid jargon
It is the root cause of all miscommunications.
Add notes
If necessary, common terms and abbreviations can be printed at the bottom of the handover sheet. For instance: CTTO means clips to remove.
Involve students
By allowing students to lead the handover, you can give them a chance to practice being in charge.
Handing over… to yourself
If you are handing over to yourself, clearly write down what needs to be done the following day in case you forget, escape to Boko Haram, or get supplies from a vendor.
Make your own documents
Create a handover document that is appropriate for your setting. It might include information about the patient and their family, relevant medical history, the reason for being admitted or receiving your care, a long-term plan, a daily plan, scheduled procedures and appointments, and other similar information. This shouldn’t be thrown together five minutes before handover but should be updated throughout the day.
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