Structured interactions between nurses and patients through intentional rounding: A scoping review

Aim

To synthesize existing literature describing the impact of intentional rounding on patient outcomes among hospitalized adults.

Background

Intentional rounding has been described as purposeful therapeutic communication between nurses and patients during regular checks with patients using standardized protocols. Despite the widespread adoption of intentional rounding, the current understanding of the benefits of these structured interactions between nurses and patients is limited.

Introduction

The critical role of nurses in ensuring high-quality and safe care in acute hospitals is often noted only when things go wrong. This was highlighted by investigations into the reasons for the failures in patient care at the Mid Staffordshire National Health Services.

Methods

A scoping review was performed and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping review guidelines.

Findings

Sixteen studies were included in the final review. Various rounding models were noted among different clinical settings; four studies reported a significant reduction in falls, and a further three reported a decrease in pressure injuries. Two studies reported a reduction in call bell usage. Significant improvements in patients’ satisfaction with intentional rounding were reported in three studies.

Discussion

Promoting intentional rounding without solid evidence of its acceptability, feasibility, and suitability in different clinical settings could compromise nurses' ability to provide safe care.

Conclusion and implications for nursing

There is weak evidence of the effectiveness of intentional rounding on patient outcomes because of the diversity of methods employed and methodological limitations in many studies. Our findings identify the need for robust studies to explore the acceptability and feasibility of a rounding protocol that can be implemented in different clinical settings.