What it means
The idea that a client's care should be connected over time: the same information, goals and plan carried across shift changes, transfers between units, discharge home and visits with different providers. Tools that support it include handoff reportHAND-off ree-PORTThe passing of information and responsibility for a client's care from one nurse or team to another.Full entry s, medication reconciliation, discharge planning and referralrih-FER-ulSending a client to another professional, service or agency for care or help that they need.Full entry s.
For the nurse
Give a complete handoff report, reconcile the medicine list at every transfer and discharge, and make sure follow-up appointments and instructions are clear before the client leaves.
At a glance
| Spanish | continuidad de la atención |
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Related terms
referral
Sending a client to another professional, service or agency for care or help that they need.
plan of care
A written plan that lists a client's problems, goals and the nursing actions to reach them.
handoff report
The passing of information and responsibility for a client's care from one nurse or team to another.
primary care provider
The doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant a person sees first for most health needs and routine care.