Use of Tape Recorder for Change of Tour Report on Nursing Units in a VA Hospital

摘要

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the effect, if any, taped change of tour reports had upon the team approach to patient care on twenty-three nursing units at VA Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee. The study incorporated a review of literature; interviewing of educational, supervisory and administrative personnel; observation of change of tour reporting; a seven-day completion study on each nursing unit (483 change of tour reports); a questionnaire to head nurses and one to staff nurses. Nursing units involved were medical, surgical, spinal cord injury, pulmonary disease, and psychiatric. Results of the study indicate that taped reports can favorably contribute to the team approach to patient care when used with discrimination. The obvious disadvantage of possible lessening of direct personal communication and interaction must be taken into consideration. Advantages include the ability to listen to the materials as often as necessary; dissemination of information with varying individual interpretations and focusing of attention upon the subject under discussion. As long as the tape recorder, and its product, is regarded as a supplemental tool and used judiciously it can contribute to the team approach in Nursing Service.