Factors affecting bedside handover reporting by nurses at a tertiary hospital in Kenya

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed at finding out a) nurses' knowledge of bedside handover report, b) attitudes of nurses towards bedside handover report, and c) perceived barriers towards bedside handover report at KCTRH (Kapsabet County Teaching and Referral Hospital).

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used among 44 nurses working in the in-patient department at KCTRH. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data among eligible participants.

Participants: The target population constituted nurses working at the KCTRH in-patient departments. There were a total number of around 50 in-patient nurses.

Results: A total of (n=42) nurses participated in the study. A significant number (n=42) recognized that a handover report is essential in providing nursing care, (n=33) noted that a handover report should contain information of the client's history and presenting diagnosis. On the other hand, (n=19) noted that a breach of client privacy would hinder its implementation.

Conclusion: Nurses recognize the critical role of bedside handover in the quest for achieving quality care at the bedside. There is also much willingness among the nurses to participate in the implementation of the bedside handover report at KCTRH.