When a nurse is in report, what does that mean?

Answer 1

When we come on shift, we get our patient assignments, find out who our CNAs, RNAs and RTs are. Then we get report. Report is exactly that - A report on each patient by the outgoing nurse. We review the diagnosis, any antibiotics given, recent or upcoming labs, IV/PICC information, any new developments (vomiting, fever, rashes, new treatments, etc.) and any special instructions or information.

So, when it's said a nurse is "in report", that nurse is receiving (getting) reports on each patient in his/her assignment. Report can be given face to face or can be recorded and listened to by the incoming nurses. Report can be given during walking rounds, if that's the policy. In addition to report given by outgoing nurses, additional report may be given to staff nurses by the charge nurse, who also receives report from the outgoing charge nurse.

This is a time we do not like to be disturbed as report is essential to continuity of care. One nurse is picking up where the other left off.

LOL! I found it interesting that both "seekingthatgem" and I both stressed the DO NOT DISTURB aspect of report.

Answer 2

It means that she is not available and is not to be disturbed. She's usually in the process of endorsing the care of her patients to the incoming shift. That is, she gives any outstanding problems that occurred during her shift. Any lab work that needs to be done. And over all, any pocedures that need to be followed thru the next shift. She talks about the vital signs, and general condition status of the pt. And divulge any changes if there are any.

Answer 3

that means the nurse is getting information on the patients he or she will be caring for from the off going shift.