Clinical question: Can a multidisciplinary focus group identify “best practices” for ensuring efficient and effective transitions of care between the ED and the inpatient setting?
Background: In the admission process, communication failures can lead to preventable adverse effects. Little has been done to evaluate or improve the interservice handoff between the ED physician and the HM physician.
Study design: Concept article.
Synopsis: Handoffs between ED physicians and HM physicians are complex due to differing pressures, cultures, and expectations. The authors recommend an interactive handoff conversation that is organized, focuses on key principles, and is accompanied by a mutual understanding of the differences between specialties. ED physicians and hospitalists should work together to develop joint expectations on content, delivery, and timing of patient handoffs.
One proposed method includes the current clinical condition of the patient, a working problem statement with degree of certainty and rationale, essential aspects of the history and physical, a brief summary of the ED course, analysis of key tests, pending data with unambiguous assignment for follow-up, and any unusual circumstances. Further research is required to determine if these suggestions improve patient outcomes.
Bottom line: Joint expectations and standardized handoff methods between emergency physicians and hospitalists are likely to foster improved communication and patient care.
Citation: Beach C, Cheung DS, Apker J, et al. Improving inter-unit transitions of care between emergency physicians and hospital medicine physicians: a conceptual approach. Acad Emerg Med. 2012;19:1188-1195.
