Background

Handover between nurses when changing shifts is an important and big part of the nurse's work. Bedside reporting is one of several shift report methods that are conducted in the health care system where the purpose is to create participation through good communication, which contributes to improved patient safety.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe patients’ experiences of participating in bedside reporting.

Method

A literature-based study was made using 7 articles with a qualitative approach.

Results

Two categories were identified: to feel included and to maintain dignity. The categories later had five subcategories: the need for security, the right to optional participation, the importance of communicating, to be seen as a unique person and the need for personal integrity. Patients experienced bedside report positively because they felt included. However, difficulties could be seen in the way their integrity could be maintained.

Conclusion

Bedside reporting was generally perceived as positive from a patient perspective.The reporting method improved patient’s participation in their own care and treatment and created an improved communication to the staff, which resulted in a feeling of safety for the patients. This strategic reporting method has both advantages and disadvantages from a patient perspective and there is an increased need for research to explore what an improvement work can look like regarding the lack of integrity.