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DOI: 10.4338/ACI-2010-04-RA-0023
Evaluation of Computerized Free Text Sign-Out Notes
Baseline Understanding and RecommendationsPublication History
received:
20 April 2010
accepted:
04 August 2010
Publication Date:
16 December 2017 (online)
Summary
Background: Standardization of sign-out, the transfer of patient information and responsibility between inpatient providers at shift change, is a Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goal intended to improve communication and reduce risk of error. Computerized systems with free text data entry and limited structure allow clinicians to generate sign-out notes in a variety of ways.
Objective: The literature lacks a systematic exploration of the range of content generated by users of computerized sign-out systems. The goal of this study was to determine if and how clinicians record standardized sign-out information using a system with free text data entry and limited structure.
Methods: Using qualitative methods, we reviewed free text sign-out notes for 730 patient cases across 39 hospital units at an academic medical center.
Results: Two categories of information expression emerged from analysis: patient treatment— comprised of patient summaries, awareness items, and action items—and care team coordination— consisting of discharge information, contact information, and social concerns. A third category describing the format of sign-out note content, presentation of information, also emerged. Location and structure of information varied, but sign-out note content for some hospital units exhibited specific characteristics and was relatively standardized.
Conclusion: Findings provide a baseline understanding of computerized free text sign-out note content. Sign-out notes contained a synthesis of data from disparate sources. We recommend formalizing existing unit-specific content standardization and system use patterns to reduce sign-out note variability and improve communication.
