Hoitokeikka

Hoitokeikka, a Finnish term, translates to "care shift" or "care shift change" in English. It refers to the period during which healthcare professionals, such as nurses, doctors, and other medical staff, transition from one group to another in a healthcare setting. This process is crucial for ensuring continuous and high-quality patient care.

During a hoitokeikka, the outgoing team provides a detailed handover to the incoming team. This includes information about each patient's condition, treatment plans, and any recent changes or developments. The handover is typically conducted in a structured manner, often using tools like SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) to ensure clarity and comprehensiveness.

The purpose of hoitokeikka is to facilitate a smooth transition of care, minimize errors, and maintain patient safety. It also serves as an opportunity for healthcare professionals to communicate important information, ask questions, and collaborate effectively. The frequency of hoitokeikka varies depending on the healthcare setting and local protocols, but it commonly occurs two to three times a day.

Effective hoitokeikka is essential for the smooth operation of healthcare services. It helps to ensure that patients receive consistent and appropriate care, even as different teams take over their management. Additionally, it promotes teamwork and communication among healthcare professionals, which are vital for delivering high-quality healthcare.