1) Information score: The PACU RN attempted to
recall 6 key elements of the handoff after a report was
given. A numerical rating score on a scale of 0 through
6 was calculated, with 0 representing that none of 6 key
elements was correctly recalled and 6 being the highest
score, wherein all 6 key elements were correctly recalled.
The 6 key elements were defined as follows:
• Patient identification using the patient’s name band
• Patient allergy information
• Antibiotic information
• Intake and output
• Estimated blood loss
• Pain management
2) Handoff adequacy: The PACU RN rated the
handoff as adequate or inadequate in a yes or no question
format. Definition of an adequacy rating was discussed
in a staff meeting with the PACU nurses and managers
present. An adequate report was defined as a verbal
report that allowed the PACU RN to begin direct patient
care without having to look up additional information.
This included performing a clinical assessment, administering
medications, and patient positioning. All PACU
RNs received instructions orally as well as by written
communications sent electronically through the hospital
email system.
3) Information clarification: The rate of callbacks for
information clarification was determined by the PACU