The Development of Korean Handoff Protocol (K-IBSAR) for Clinical Ward Nurses
10.15715/kjhcom.2025.20.1.99
- Author:
Heejeong KIM
1
;
Hyejin JEON
;
Eun-Kyung LEE
;
Sung-Hee BAIK
Author Information
1. Professor, Department of Nursing, Baekseok University / Doctoral Candidate, Department of Education, Ewha Womans University
- Publication Type:Research Article
- From:
Health Communication
2025;20(1):99-112
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:: This study aimed to develop and validate the Korean Handoff Protocol for Clinical Ward Nurses (K-IBSAR) to standardize nursing handoff practices and improve the quality of care. Current handoff methods in Korean hospitals often lack standardization, leading to communication errors, delayed treatment, and increased nurse stress.
Methods:: This methodological study involved a multi-stage approach. First, a comprehensive literature review informed the initial development of handoff items. Next, focus group interviews (n=28) with ward nurses and nurse managers were conducted to understand existing handoff practices and identify improvement needs. A nationwide online survey (n=542) was then administered to assess the importance and performance of preliminary handoff items. Finally, an expert content validity review (n=10) and a pilot test with clinical nurses (n=6) were conducted to refine and validate the K-IBSAR.
Results:: The K-IBSAR was developed as a 5-phase protocol: Identify, Background, Situation, Assessment & Action, and Recommendation & Recheck, comprising 20 detailed items. Content Validity Index (CVI) averaged 0.99, indicating high expert agreement. The protocol was designed to be adaptable for initial and continuous handoffs, as well as for verbal, partially written, and fully written methods.
Conclusion:: K-IBSAR offers a standardized, evidence-based approach to nursing handoffs, specifically tailored for the Korean clinical environment. It is expected to enhance patient safety by minimizing information omissions and improving communication continuity. Further research is needed to validate its applicability in specialized nursing units and to establish benchmarks for quality control.
