Signouts

Signouts refer to the formal process by which a user, practitioner, or participant records the completion of an activity and transfers responsibility to another party. The term is used across multiple fields to denote the termination of a session, the hand‑off of duties, or the documentation of movement away from a location or system.

In computing, a signout—commonly called logout—ends an authenticated session on a computer, network, or web service. The action clears session tokens, revokes access credentials, and often records the time and method of termination in audit logs. Secure signout procedures help prevent unauthorized access and mitigate risks such as session hijacking.

In healthcare, signouts are critical components of patient handoff communication. After a shift or procedure, clinicians record essential information—including diagnoses, treatments, pending tests, and potential concerns—in a signout sheet or electronic handoff tool. Accurate signouts aim to preserve continuity of care, reduce medical errors, and comply with regulatory standards such as those outlined by the Joint Commission.

Educational institutions and many workplaces employ sign‑out sheets to track the movement of students, staff, or equipment. Users record their name, destination, time of departure, and expected return, providing a transparent log that supports safety, accountability, and inventory control.

Best practices for signouts generally emphasize clarity, completeness, and timeliness. Documentation should be concise yet comprehensive, using standardized formats to ensure consistency. Prompt execution of signout procedures, combined with verification by the receiving party, helps maintain security, operational integrity, and reliable records across diverse settings.