Patients' perceptions of bedside handoff: the need for a culture of always.

Current literature on patients' perceptions of bedside handoff describes studies using qualitative, anecdotal, and/or indirect measurement. This study identifies patients' perceptions of the bedside handoff through direct and quantitative measurement. The statistically significant findings from a survey of 103 medical surgical adult patients demonstrate that registered nurse bedside handoff has a positive effect on patient perceptions of safety, understanding, and satisfaction. Bedside end-of-shift handoff is most effective when it is performed consistently.