Dissertation
Enhancing oncology nursing practice through inter-shift safety huddles for fall prevention
Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.), Drexel University
01 May 2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011337
Abstract
Inpatient falls significantly impact patient health outcomes, particularly among vulnerable individuals in a high-acuity surgical oncology unit. A review of unit data and existing literature highlighted communication gaps during nursing shift handoffs as a contributing factor to the risk of falls. This evidence underscored the need for structured communication strategies to enhance situational awareness and improve adherence to fall prevention practices. In response, daily inter-shift safety huddles were implemented over a six-week period to strengthen communication, reinforce fall prevention protocols, and promote accountability during nurse transitions. These huddles occurred at each shift change, concentrating on identifying patients at high risk for falls, reviewing individualized prevention strategies, and addressing barriers to care. The intervention's effectiveness was assessed through measures such as inpatient fall rates, compliance audit scores for fall prevention practices, huddle adherence, and staff feedback regarding workflow and safety engagement. Although the implementation of inter-shift huddles did not result in a measurable reduction in fall incidents during the intervention period, it did lead to improved overall compliance with institutional fall prevention policies. This included the effective use of bed and chair alarms, yellow non-skid socks, and yellow bracelets for patients identified as high-risk. Staff members reported increased safety awareness, clearer communication, and enhanced team accountability during shift transitions.
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Details
- Title
- Enhancing oncology nursing practice through inter-shift safety huddles for fall prevention
- Creators
- Shevon Smith
- Contributors
- Barbara Ruth Osborne (DNP Chair) - Drexel University, Nurse Practitioner Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University
- Number of pages
- 55 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Academic Unit
- Doctoral Nursing; Nursing (Graduate); College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991022173172604721