How can you ensure physicians follow proper patient transfer procedures?

1 Understand the transfer criteria

Before initiating a patient transfer, you need to understand the criteria and protocols for transferring a patient to a different level or location of care. These may vary depending on the type and severity of the patient's condition, the availability and capacity of the receiving facility or unit, the clinical guidelines and standards, and the policies and procedures of your organization. You should familiarize yourself with the transfer criteria and consult with the physician responsible for the patient's care if you have any questions or concerns.

2 Communicate effectively with the receiving physician

One of the most important steps in patient transfer is to communicate effectively with the receiving physician. You should provide a concise and accurate summary of the patient's history, diagnosis, treatment, status, and goals of care, as well as any special needs or preferences. You should also verify the availability and readiness of the receiving facility or unit, and confirm the mode and timing of the transfer. You should use a structured communication tool, such as SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation), to ensure that you cover all the relevant information and avoid any omissions or misunderstandings.

3 Document the transfer process

Another essential step in patient transfer is to document the transfer process in the patient's medical record. You should record the date and time of the transfer, the reason for the transfer, the name and contact details of the receiving physician and facility or unit, the mode and method of transportation, and any interventions or medications given during the transfer. You should also document any issues or complications that occurred during the transfer, and how they were resolved. You should ensure that the documentation is complete, accurate, and legible, and that it follows the standards and regulations of your organization and jurisdiction.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?