Loss of information can increase
the risk of harm to patients and the potential
for preventable errors. NiCe (2007a) guidelines
recommend the use of formal, structured
verbal handovers that are supported by written
information. The sBar – situation, Background,
assessment and recommendation (Christie and
robinson 2009) – framework is often applied
in ward handover settings. however, nurse
opinion studies of communication have suggested
that electronic systems can impair effective
communication when they are used to replace
verbal communication