Effect of standardized EHR-integrated handoff report on intraoperative communication outcomes

Objectives: We evaluated the effectiveness and implementability of a standardized EHR-integrated handoff report to support intraoperative handoffs. Materials and Methods: A pre-post intervention study was used to compare the quality of intraoperative handoffs supported by unstructured notes (pre) to structured, standardized EHR-integrated handoff reports (post). Participants included anesthesia clinicians involved in intraoperative handoffs. A mixed-method approach was followed, supported by general observations, shadowing, surveys, and interviews. Results: One hundred and fifty-one intraoperative permanent handoffs (78 pre, 73 post) were included. One hundred percent of participants in the post-intervention cohort utilized the report. Compared to unstructured, structured handoffs using the EHR-integrated handoff report led to: (1) significant increase in the transfer of information about airway management (55%-78%, P <. 001), intraoperative course (63%-86%, P <. 001), and potential concerns (64%-88%, P <. 001); (2) significant improvement in clinician satisfaction scores, with regards to information clarity and succinctness (4.5-4.7, P =. 002), information transfer (3.8-4.2, P =. 011), and opportunities for fewer errors reported by senders (3.3-2.5, P <. 001) and receivers (3.2-2.4, P <. 001); and (3) significant decrease in handoff duration (326.2-262.3 s, P =. 016). Clinicians found the report implementation highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible but noted a few areas for improvement to enhance its usability and integration within the intraoperative workflow. Discussion and Conclusion: A standardized EHR-integrated handoff report ensures the effectiveness and efficiency of intraoperative handoffs with its structured, consistent format that - promotes up-to-date and pertinent intraoperative information transfer; reduces opportunities for errors; and streamlines verbal communication. Handoff standardization can promote safe and high-quality intraoperative care.