Date of Award
Summer 2025
Project Type
Thesis
College or School
CHHS
Department
Nursing
Program or Major
Direct Entry Masters in Nursing
Degree Name
Master of Science
First Advisor
Pamela Kallmerten
Second Advisor
Elizabeth Evans
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
The Modified Bedside Nursing Handoff (mBNH) is a process where nurses exchange patient information and responsibility at shift change, ideally at the bedside. A PRISMA-based literature review showed that mBNH may help improve communication, protect patient privacy, and enhance safety when done thoughtfully—sometimes at the bedside, sometimes just outside the room. This quality improvement project was launched on a busy unit that cares for high-acuity patients from across northern New England, including those recovering from strokes, motor vehicle accidents, and serious falls. The goal was to increase both frequency and how standardization that nurses reported using mBNH by at least 10% between May and August 2025.
LOCAL PROBLEM:
The microsystem has a large quantity of high-risk patients requiring reassessment, such as those that have suffered strokes, fall, seizures, motor vehicle accidents and other traumas. The patients can be confused or have an altered mental status and are at risk due to impulsivity, or poor safety awareness. No standardized process in BNH on the unit, therefore there is opportunity for education to the staff on a modified approach.
METHODS:
Using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model, an educational pamphlet was provided, flyers were posted in common areas, and nurses were asked to complete a short 14 question survey before and after reviewing the materials.
RESULTS:
Unfortunately, engagement was low. Out of 23 nurses on the unit, only one completed the pre-survey and two completed the post-survey. Because of the limited participation and short timeframe, the project didn’t meet its goals, and it was hard to draw any solid conclusions.
CONCLUSION:
Although the results were inconclusive, this small pilot suggests that with better planning, more time, and greater staff involvement, mBNH has the potential to be explored further in the future.
Recommended Citation
Hodgdon, Sydney P., "Introducing Education on Modified Bedside Nursing Handoff to Reinforce Patient Safety across High-Risk Populations: A Quality Improvement Project." (2025). Master's Theses and Capstones. 1951.
https://scholars.unh.edu/thesis/1951