Shift handover experience of ICU nurses:a qualitative study / 现代临床护理

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the shift handover experience of ICU clinical nurses. Method About 19 ICU nurses were enrolled in the investigation using semi-structured interviews and the results were analyzed with phenomenological analysis. Result Their shift handover experience were summarized into 6 themes, that is high recognition on the importance of shift handover, lack of standardized processes, incomplete contents of shift handover, frequent interruption, forgotten information and repeated information. Conclusions Shift handover is an important part of ICU nursing function but there are many problems in the practical operation. The nurse managers need to standard the handover process, stipulate handover contents and enhance the training on shift handover with specialist examination and positive results for the purpose of improving the quality of the shift handover.