A residency clinic finds that abnormal test results are often missed when patients are transferred between teams at the end of rotations. Handoffs

Question

A residency clinic finds that abnormal test results are often missed when patients are transferred between teams at the end of rotations. Handoffs vary in format, and pending studies are not consistently listed. Which of the following is the most appropriate quality improvement measure?

Accepted Answer

Use a standardized handoff tool that includes pending tests and responsible follow-up clinician

Answer

Avoid documenting pending results to reduce workload

Answer

Inform patients that missed results are unavoidable

Answer

Transfer responsibility without naming a clinician

Answer

Let each clinician invent a new handoff format

Handoff standardization — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A residency clinic finds that abnormal test results are often missed when patients are transferred between teams at the end of rotations. Handoffs vary in format, and pending studies are not consistently listed. Which of the following is the most appropriate quality improvement measure?