Improving handoffs and transitions process using I-PASS in in-patient services

Ensuring patient safety and continuity of care within in-patient healthcare settings relies upon effective communication during patient handoffs and transitions. This study delves into the implementation and outcomes of utilizing I-PASS (Illness severity, Patient summary, Action list, Situation awareness and contingency planning, and, Synthesis by receiver) methodology to enhance handoff processes. This process is mainly developed to standardize handoffs. I-PASS not only improves communication but also diminishes medical errors as well as enhances patient outcomes. This study employed descriptive research and stratified simple random sampling technique. The study was conducted in a private multispecialty hospital located in Chennai with a sample size of 120 including nurses and physicians. Demographic factors like age, marital status, gender, occupation, and experience were studied. Statistical tools like correlation, regression, and structural equation modeling were used. Results depict that factors of I-PASS and quality of care have a strong and positive relationship. Recommendations were provided for future improvements.