Abstract
With the increasing complexities in medicine and the reduction in working hours, shift work patterns are emerging for hospital doctors and with them the possibility for discontinuity of patient care and negative outcomes for patient safety. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, format and structure of formal handover rounds in Irish hospitals in four different specialties. A 26-item questionnaire was sent to 61 participants in 26 hospitals. Just over a quarter of respondents (28%) reported formal handover rounds. Respondents from Obstetrics and Gynaecology were more likely to report handover rounds (80%). Prominent features of handover include frequent consultant (100%) and post-call staff (73%) attendance. This study confirms that handover rounds are not universal in Irish hospitals. While this does not imply that patient safety is compromised, the need for effective and comprehensive handover is a critical aspect of patient care.
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