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

Mueller SK, Yoon CS, Schnipper JL. Association of a Web-Based Handoff Tool With Rates of Medical Errors. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(9):1400-2. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.4258.

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September 27, 2016
Mueller SK, Yoon CS, Schnipper JL. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(9):1400-2.
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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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Mueller SK, Yoon CS, Schnipper JL. Association of a Web-Based Handoff Tool With Rates of Medical Errors. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(9):1400-2. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.4258.