Patients allowed into "secret" meetings | Families

BOLIVIA, NC (WECT) - There's a new system at Brunswick Novant Medical Center, one that invites patients to participate in what were formerly private meetings.

The traditional method of sharing information included a conversation between nurses and other healthcare providers in a secluded conference room or other area away from the patient. Now, patients and family members or friends of their choosing can participate in those discussions.

The new communication model is called nurse bedside reporting. It provides a safe method to hand off care of the patient to new staff.

Topics can include a review of patient allergies or medications, discussion of the tests or procedures that are scheduled for the day, or anything that impacts the care and safety of the patient.

Nurse bedside reporting helps patients and staff improve communication and understanding of healthcare, tests and procedures.

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