General Nursing (RGN)

TRANSFER-IN (TRANS-IN)

This is when a patient is received from another unit or place of first admission to a new unit or department. The patient can be received from a wheelchair, bed or trolley within the same facility. The ambulance can be used when the patient is being transferred from one unit/department to the other within the same hospital.

Purpose

Mostly for specialty treatment
Investigations e.g. C.T. scan, MRI etc.
To ensure continuity of care between units

Indications

Unit to unit
Unit to a center
Unit to department
Transfer between healthcare facilities
Transfer for specialty treatment or investigation

Equipment

Patient's medical records (Manual or electronic)
Referral notes (Manual or electronic)

Procedure steps

Confirm transfer of patient/client with the referring unit or hospital
Make appropriate bed to receive the patient/client
Assemble necessary equipment e.g. oxygen cylinders, suction machine, vital signs tray etc.
Assemble documentation and investigation forms (Manual or electronic)
Receive incoming patient/client, relatives and accompanying nurse warmly
Confirm identity of patient/client with accompanying nurse
Explain the importance of the transfer to the patient to obtain his/her cooperation
Take over transfer notes and personal belongings from accompanying nurse
Ask for clarification on vital issues pertaining to patients/clients condition from the accompanying nurse
Introduce yourself and other staff to patient/client and relatives
Admit patient into bed ensuring patient safety
Do quick assessment of patients/clients condition and compare with patient/clients medical records
Assess for any drainage or tubings and connect appropriately e.g. oxygen, intravenous line, urinary catheter etc.
Review patients notes, treatment plan and act accordingly
Orientate patient/client and relatives on environment and routine of the unit if necessary
Document all assessments, findings and treatments in nurses' notes (manually or electronically)
Plan care for the patient/client

Precautions

Confirm the transfer with the referring and receiving units
Verify patient identity using appropriate identifiers
Assess the patient's clinical condition before and immediately after transfer
Ensure oxygen, suction, intravenous lines, drains and other devices are secure
Use appropriate transportation according to the patient's condition
Ensure relevant medical records, medications, investigation results and belongings accompany the patient as required
Maintain patient privacy, dignity and confidentiality during transfer
Provide complete clinical handover to the receiving nurse/team
Document the transfer, assessment findings and handover

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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