Information exchange in the NICU: what sources of patient data do physicians prefer to use?

Physicians' preference to use verbal communication is consistent with prior studies and identifies that the bedside flowsheet is also an important source of information, while other written sources-especially resident notes-appear not to be utilized as frequently.

Abstract

Physicians' preference to use verbal communication is consistent with prior studies. This study identifies that the bedside flowsheet is also an important source of information, while other written sources-especially resident notes-appear not to be utilized as frequently. Understanding why physicians use or fail to use different sources of patient information may shed light on ways to improve information exchange and reduce medical error in complex settings such as the NICU.