Handover communication in intensive therapy: nursing team meanings and practices

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the meanings built by the nursing team regarding communication at shift handover in intensive care units. Method: A qualitative study, grounded on the theoretical framework of Berlo, was developed in the intensive care unit of a hospital in Rio de Janeiro with the nursing team participating in the handover process or working with patient care. Observation and interviews were conducted, with a thorough description of the data and thematic content analysis. Results: There is acknowledgment of the meaning of handover in nursing care, which is expressed in behaviors aimed at avoiding inefficacy or the incorrect perception of communication; on the other hand, there is little participation of nursing technicians, with side talks, lack of attention and incomplete information, which compromises their effectiveness. Conclusion: Professionals should understand their role in the communication process by playing it with active participation to reduce handover noises.