What is the recommended approach to shift handoffs to ensure continuity of care?

• A. Rely on patient to relay information
• B. Use a standardized handoff such as SBAR or ISBAR, with read-back and inclusion of critical information
• C. Use an informal chat without notes
• D. Omit critical information to speed handoff

Answer: (B)

Using a standardized handoff approach ensures continuity of care by providing a clear, complete transfer of critical information between shifts. A structured framework like SBAR or ISBAR gives the handoff a predictable flow: identify the patient, describe the Situation, share Background information, present the Assessment, and lay out the Recommendation. Including a read-back step reinforces understanding, as the receiving clinician repeats back key elements to confirm accuracy and catch any gaps.

This method emphasizes including essential details such as patient identifiers, current condition and vitals trends, active diagnoses, allergies, medications (including recent changes and last doses), recent labs or imaging, the plan for the current shift, pending tests, and any safety concerns or red flags to monitor. When these elements are consistently conveyed, the care team can anticipate needs, avoid duplications or omissions, and respond promptly to changes in the patient’s status.

Relying on the patient to relay information is unreliable because patients may be acutely ill, anxious, confused, or unaware of all medications and allergies. An informal chat without notes can omit critical details, leading to miscommunication and safety risks. Intentionally omitting information undermines patient safety and disrupts continuity of care.

So, adopting a standardized handoff with a structured framework and read-back best supports safe, continuous patient care across shifts.