Which statement should be included in the handoff report to ensure continuity of care?

Including the statement "The IV heparin infusion needs to be replaced tonight" in the handoff report is essential for ensuring continuity of care. This information is critical as it alerts the incoming healthcare provider to a specific task that needs to be addressed to prevent any potential complications associated with the IV therapy. Timely replacement of the heparin infusion is necessary to maintain appropriate anticoagulation levels and to follow prescribed protocols, thus safeguarding the client’s wellbeing.

Continuity of care relies heavily on effective communication of important tasks, medications, and treatments that are ongoing or need to be monitored. Highlighting the requirement for the heparin infusion to be replaced provides direct guidance to the next caregiver about what is expected during their shift. It emphasizes the need for timely action, which is vital in scenarios involving infusions, where delays can lead to serious adverse effects or treatment interruptions.

In contrast, the other statements contribute information, but they do not indicate immediate actions needed for continuity of care to the same extent as the need to replace the IV heparin infusion. For example, while noting that the client had acetaminophen for pain relief provides a context for pain management, it does not require urgent action. Similarly, acknowledging a reaction to morphine is important