Evaluating observed and perceived experiences of operating room to paediatric critical care unit handoffs: an initial assessment to inform quality improvement.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Transferring critically ill patients from the Operating Room (OR) to the Paediatric Critical Care Unit (PCCU) is a complex process. Unstructured handoffs and poor communication increase the risk of adverse events. This project aimed to characterize the current handoff process, identify strengths and deficiencies, and define opportunities for improving patient handover.

Methods

A working group with multidisciplinary stakeholder representation was created. An audit tool was developed and used to evaluate daytime OR to PCCU handoffs. A survey was distributed electronically to all staff involved in the handoffs.

Results

Audits of 50 handoffs revealed that only 71.4% of handoffs included the full perioperative team and introductions were rarely completed (14.0

SUBMITTER: Davidson J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12540124 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature