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The article offers tips for improving the management of hand-off communication in hospitals. It cites the report of Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations which asserts that communication failure is the root cause of all sentinel events in hospitals. It suggests on determining the individual who will be in-charge of the functions and roles of a personnel who is planning to leave. It asserts that supervisors, peers as well as department leaders must be informed of the absence through electronic mails (e-mails). It notes on giving full report regarding the leave of a nurse to discuss current as well as anticipated issues. It further acknowledges the importance of operational communication tools to ensure the efficiency and to improve patient safety.

The article provides some basic tips on business writing for the new nurse manager. In the writing process, as in the nursing process, it is necessary for the writer to assess by establishing the purpose of the communication, the intended audience, the subject and the main ideas. Careful planning is the key to the writing process. E-mail, an efficient and immediate communication form, has significantly changed the way people communicate. It is important for nurse managers to pay particular attention to the basic rules of e-mail communication. Business letters should be written with a purpose in mind and it should be clear, concise and yet include all the information the reader needs. It also offers some basic tips to follow in writing minutes.

The article focuses on the concept of collaborative capital. The concept of collaborative capital is established by leaders who hold each other mutually accountable for fostering safe-to-have conversations. The failure to hold crucial conversations contribute to serious errors, sentinel events and increased staff dissatisfaction and turnover. Particular focus is given to discussing the levels of conversation.

Offers advice in using positive communication in the workplace. Effects of negative communication; Examples of positive communication; Use of positive communication to elicit desired responses; Ways of practicing positive framing.

Gives advice for medical personnel to follow if they have made errors. View that honesty about making a mistake is best, and that making excuses can be harmful; Advice to accept responsibility for errors; Importance of remedying errors and reporting on what has been done to fix problems, as well as taking the initiative to suggest solutions; Tips for reaching an agreement in the event of conflicts.

Presents a question with corresponding answers on how to manage the mergers with a health care system. Elements that will assist health care system managers on their time management; Techniques in developing a communication system; Accessibility of an improved communication system.