Sentinel Event Alert Gives Eight Tips for High-Quality Handoffs

​High-quality handoffs can be achieved by all caregivers, Joint Commission said, introducing a September 11, 2017, Sentinel Event Alert outlining eight tips for achieving this goal. The accrediting agency advises determining all pieces of critical information that will need to be communicated face to face and in writing. Communication methods should be standardized using tools such as forms, checklists, and templates. Electronic or paper communication should not be the sole means of communication; in the event that a face-to-face conversation cannot take place, providers should consider telephone or video conferencing. Combine information from many sources into one communication, rather than a series of small communications.