Document Type

Poster

Intentional Hourly Rounding in Acute Care: Impact on Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction

Authors

Luciana L. Knight, University of MaineFollow
Molly Kinnarney, University of MaineFollow
Mary Clark, University of MaineFollow
Adrian Webber, University of MaineFollow

Associated Faculty

Sarah Hanscome, MSN, RN

Sponsoring Academic Department

School of Nursing

Publication Date

2025

Abstract/ Summary

Patient falls are among the most common adverse events in hospital settings, often resulting in injuries, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Preventing falls is a top priority for healthcare organizations seeking to enhance patient safety and outcomes. Purposeful hourly rounding, a proactive nursing strategy involving regular, scheduled visits to patient rooms, has been proposed as an effective method to reduce fall rates. This literature review examines the impact of purposeful hourly rounding on the occurrence of falls in hospitalized adult patients, compared to standard care without a structured rounding process. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, Elsevier, and Wiley Online Library. The following were used as inclusion criteria: adults, inpatient settings, and publication after 2014. Studies involving pediatric patients and non-inpatient settings were excluded. Of the initial eighteen articles, twelve were included in the literature review. Findings from the literature suggest that implementing purposeful hourly rounding is associated with a statistically significant reduction in patient falls. This structured approach enhances nurse-patient communication, improves patient satisfaction, and facilitates early identification of potential fall risks. Furthermore, it empowers patients by proactively addressing their needs, thereby reducing the likelihood of unsafe, unassisted movements. Healthcare organizations should consider implementing or strengthening this approach as part of a comprehensive patient safety program.

Repository Citation

Knight, Luciana L.; Kinnarney, Molly; Clark, Mary; and Webber, Adrian, "Intentional Hourly Rounding in Acute Care: Impact on Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction" (2025). Non-Thesis Student Work. 98.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/student_work/98

Version

other