Handover communication in intensive therapy: nursing team meanings and practices

To analyze the meanings built by the nursing team regarding communication at shift handover in intensive care units. A qualitative study, grounded on the theoretical framework of Berlo, was developed in the intensive care unit of a hospital in Rio de Janeiro with the nursing team participating in the handover process or working with patient care. Observation and interviews were conducted, with a thorough description of the data and thematic content analysis. There is acknowledgment of the meaning of handover in nursing care, which is expressed in behaviors aimed at avoiding inefficacy or the incorrect perception of communication; on the other hand, there is little participation of nursing technicians, with side talks, lack of attention and incomplete information, which compromises their effectiveness. Professionals should understand their role in the communication process by playing it with active participation to reduce handover noises.