Patient Safety and Care Continuity Through Standardized Handoff Protocols: A Scoping Review of The ISBAR Framework In Emergency Nursing Practice

Abstract

Background: Effective communication during patient handoffs is critical in nursing, particularly within emergency departments where the risk of clinical errors is heightened. Standardized handoff protocols, such as the ISBAR (Identification, Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) framework, have been proposed to enhance continuity of care and patient safety.

Methods: This scoping review, conducted in accordance with Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ISBAR in nursing handovers for acutely ill adult patients in emergency settings. A systematic search across multiple databases, including CINAHL and PubMed, was performed using keywords related to ISBAR, communication, and emergency departments. Inclusion criteria focused on studies published between 2013 and 2023 that addressed the benefits of ISBAR in nursing handoffs.

Results: The review identified nine relevant studies demonstrating that the implementation of ISBAR significantly improves communication among healthcare teams, enhances patient safety, and standardizes information transfer. Key findings highlighted the reduction of information loss, improved clarity in communication, and increased interdisciplinary collaboration, leading to better patient outcomes.

Conclusion: The use of ISBAR as a standardized handoff protocol in emergency departments is associated with numerous advantages that enhance the quality of care and patient safety. Its structured approach facilitates effective communication, thereby reducing the likelihood of errors during critical care transitions. Continued research is needed to further explore its application and effectiveness across diverse clinical settings.