In the fast-paced world of healthcare, clear and concise communication is absolutely essential. One critical tool for this is the Transfer Note Nursing Example, which serves as a bridge of information when a patient moves between different care settings, such as from a hospital to a rehabilitation facility or from one unit to another within the same hospital. This essay will explore what a transfer note is, why it’s important, and provide several examples of what these notes might look like in various scenarios.
Understanding the Transfer Note
A transfer note is a document created by a healthcare professional, usually a nurse, to provide a comprehensive summary of a patient’s current condition, treatment, and needs. It’s like a quick report card that follows the patient wherever they go in the healthcare system. This note ensures continuity of care and helps prevent errors or delays in treatment.
A well-written transfer note typically includes:
- Patient demographics (name, date of birth, medical record number)
- Reason for transfer
- Current medical diagnoses and history
- Medications, allergies, and any known sensitivities
- Vital signs and physical assessment findings
- Treatments provided and planned for the future
- Any specific needs or concerns (e.g., dietary restrictions, mobility issues)
The transfer note also details information regarding any outstanding tests or procedures and any special instructions for the receiving healthcare team. This documentation is critical to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any lapse in patient care. Without it, vital information could be missed, potentially leading to adverse patient outcomes. For instance, consider a patient with a history of allergies: if this information isn’t clearly communicated, the patient could receive a medication they’re allergic to.
Transfer notes take on many forms. The format of the transfer note can vary depending on the specific facility or the type of transfer (e.g., internal unit transfer vs. external facility transfer). Some facilities have electronic health records (EHRs) with pre-formatted templates to streamline the process. Others may use paper-based systems. The core information, however, remains the same: a comprehensive overview of the patient’s current status and care needs.
In summary, here’s the type of information is a transfer note:
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Patient Demographics | Name, DOB, Medical Record Number |
| Reason for Transfer | Why the patient is being moved |
| Medical History | Relevant past diagnoses and treatments |
| Current Medications | A list of all medications the patient is taking |
| Allergies | Known allergies, including medications and food |
Email Example: Transfer Note for a Patient Going to a Rehabilitation Facility
Subject: Transfer Note – [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number]
<p>Dear Rehabilitation Team,</p>
<p>This email serves as a transfer note for [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number], who is being transferred to your facility for rehabilitation services on [Date].</p>
<p><strong>Patient Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Name: [Patient Name]</li>
<li>Date of Birth: [Date of Birth]</li>
<li>Medical Record Number: [Medical Record Number]</li>
<li>Admitting Diagnosis: [Admitting Diagnosis, e.g., Stroke, Hip Fracture]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Current Condition:</strong></p>
<p>[Patient Name] is currently [briefly describe the patient's current condition, e.g., stable, recovering well, experiencing some pain]. They are [e.g., able to ambulate with assistance, bedridden, requires a wheelchair].</p>
<p><strong>Medical History:</strong></p>
<p>[Briefly summarize relevant medical history, e.g., Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, History of falls].</p>
<p><strong>Medications:</strong></p>
<p>Please see the attached medication list. Key medications include: [List key medications and dosages, e.g., Lisinopril 10mg daily, Metformin 500mg BID].</p>
<p><strong>Allergies:</strong></p>
<p>[List any known allergies, e.g., Penicillin - hives].</p>
<p><strong>Treatments and Procedures:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Wound care to [location] - dressing changes every [frequency].</li>
<li>Physical therapy: [frequency and goals].</li>
<li>Speech therapy: [frequency and goals].</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Diet:</strong> [Specify diet, e.g., Regular diet, diabetic diet, pureed diet].</p>
<p><strong>Activity Level:</strong> [Specify, e.g., Ambulate with assistance, Bed rest with assistance].</p>
<p><strong>Special Considerations:</strong></p>
<p>[Note any special considerations, such as fall risk, communication difficulties, or emotional support needs, e.g., Patient is a fall risk; provide assistance with all transfers. Patient requires assistance with feeding due to dysphagia].</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong></p>
<p>If you have any questions, please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
Email Example: Internal Transfer Note from ICU to a General Medical Unit
Subject: Transfer Note – [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number] – Transfer to [Unit Name]
<p>Dear Nursing Staff of [Unit Name],</p>
<p>This email is to inform you of the transfer of [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number], from the ICU to your unit on [Date] at [Time].</p>
<p><strong>Patient Summary:</strong></p>
<p>[Patient Name] was admitted on [Admission Date] with [brief admission diagnosis]. They have since been treated for [briefly describe the treatment, e.g., pneumonia, sepsis] and have shown significant improvement.</p>
<p><strong>Current Status:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Vital signs: Stable. Temperature: [Temperature], Blood Pressure: [Blood Pressure], Heart Rate: [Heart Rate], Respirations: [Respirations], O2 Sat: [O2 Sat].</li>
<li>Alert and oriented to person, place, and time.</li>
<li>Respiratory: Weaning off oxygen. Currently on [Oxygen delivery method] at [Liters/Flow Rate].</li>
<li>Cardiac: Regular sinus rhythm.</li>
<li>Neurological: No focal deficits.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Medications:</strong></p>
<p>Please see the attached medication list. Key medications to monitor include: [List key medications that require close monitoring, e.g., antibiotics, anticoagulants].</p>
<p><strong>Procedures:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Foley catheter in place. Monitor output.</li>
<li>IV fluids running at [rate].</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Diet:</strong> Regular diet as tolerated.</p>
<p><strong>Activity:</strong> Ambulate with assistance as tolerated.</p>
<p><strong>Precautions:</strong> [List any precautions, e.g., Fall precautions, droplet precautions].</p>
<p><strong>Special Instructions:</strong> Monitor for signs of respiratory distress. Continue to encourage ambulation.</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong></p>
<p>Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions: [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].</p>
<p>Thank you for your cooperation.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
Letter Example: Transfer Note for a Patient Being Discharged Home with Home Health
Date: [Date]
To: Home Health Agency – [Agency Name]
From: [Your Name], RN
Subject: Transfer of Care – [Patient Name], DOB: [Date of Birth], MRN: [Medical Record Number]
<p>Dear Home Health Team,</p>
<p>This letter serves as a transfer note for [Patient Name], who is being discharged home today, [Date], with home health services.</p>
<p><strong>Patient Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Name: [Patient Name]</li>
<li>Date of Birth: [Date of Birth]</li>
<li>Medical Record Number: [Medical Record Number]</li>
<li>Primary Diagnosis: [Primary Diagnosis, e.g., Pneumonia, Wound Care]</li>
<li>Secondary Diagnoses: [Secondary Diagnoses, e.g., Diabetes, Hypertension]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Summary of Hospital Course:</strong></p>
<p>[Briefly summarize the patient’s hospital stay and the reason for admission and treatment. e.g., Patient was admitted for pneumonia and treated with antibiotics. They are now improving and able to go home with home health support.].</p>
<p><strong>Current Medications:</strong></p>
<p>Please see the attached medication reconciliation sheet. Key medications to monitor include: [List key medications with dosage, frequency, and route, e.g., Amoxicillin 500mg PO BID, Insulin Lispro 10 units SC AC meals]. Educate patient on the importance of medication adherence and administration.</p>
<p><strong>Allergies:</strong> [List all known allergies].</p>
<p><strong>Wound Care (if applicable):</strong></p>
<p>[Describe wound, location, size, and treatment, e.g., Wound on left lower leg, 5cm x 3cm. Dressing change with saline and gauze daily. Patient/family to be educated on wound care.]</p>
<p><strong>Diet:</strong> [Dietary restrictions, e.g., Diabetic diet. No added salt].</p>
<p><strong>Activity:</strong> [Activity level and any restrictions, e.g., Ambulating with walker. No heavy lifting].</p>
<p><strong>Home Health Orders:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Wound care as ordered.</li>
<li>Medication management and education.</li>
<li>Monitoring of vital signs.</li>
<li>Assessment of overall condition and any complications.</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Patient/Family Education:</strong> [List key education points, e.g., Signs and symptoms of infection, importance of follow-up appointments, how to take medications.]</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong> For any questions, please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Please call with any concerns about the patient's status after discharge.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
Email Example: Transfer Note to a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
Subject: Transfer Note – [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number] – Transfer to [SNF Name]
<p>Dear Admissions Team,</p>
<p>This email is a transfer note for [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number], who is being transferred to your facility on [Date] at [Time].</p>
<p><strong>Patient Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Name: [Patient Name]</li>
<li>Date of Birth: [Date of Birth]</li>
<li>Medical Record Number: [Medical Record Number]</li>
<li>Admitting Diagnosis: [Admitting Diagnosis, e.g., Post-surgical hip replacement]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Brief History and Reason for Transfer:</strong></p>
<p>[Patient Name] underwent [procedure] on [Date] and is now transferring to your facility for continued rehabilitation and skilled nursing care.</p>
<p><strong>Current Status:</strong></p>
<p>[Patient Name] is currently [describe the patient's overall status, e.g., stable, able to ambulate with a walker, experiencing some pain].</p>
<p><strong>Medications:</strong></p>
<p>Attached is a complete medication list. Highlights include: [List key medications requiring monitoring or special attention, e.g., Warfarin, insulin].</p>
<p><strong>Allergies:</strong> [List all known allergies].</p>
<p><strong>Treatments:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Wound care to [location] every [frequency and type of dressing].</li>
<li>Physical Therapy: [frequency and type of therapy].</li>
<li>Occupational Therapy: [frequency and type of therapy].</li>
<li>Speech Therapy: [if applicable, frequency and type of therapy].</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Diet:</strong> [Specify the diet, e.g., Regular, Diabetic, Pureed].</p>
<p><strong>Activity Level:</strong> [Specify the activity level and any restrictions, e.g., Ambulate with walker, Weight bearing as tolerated on the left leg].</p>
<p><strong>Precautions:</strong> [List any precautions, e.g., Fall precautions, DVT prophylaxis, aspiration precautions].</p>
<p><strong>Special Needs and Considerations:</strong> [List anything specific to the patient's care, e.g., Needs assistance with all ADLs. Monitor for signs of infection].</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong> Please contact me if you have any questions. [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].</p>
<p>Thank you,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
Letter Example: Transfer Note for a Patient with Behavioral Health Needs
Date: [Date]
To: Behavioral Health Unit – [Unit Name]
From: [Your Name], RN
Subject: Transfer of Care – [Patient Name], DOB: [Date of Birth], MRN: [Medical Record Number]
<p>Dear Behavioral Health Team,</p>
<p>This letter serves as a transfer note for [Patient Name], who is being transferred to your unit for behavioral health assessment and treatment.</p>
<p><strong>Patient Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Name: [Patient Name]</li>
<li>Date of Birth: [Date of Birth]</li>
<li>Medical Record Number: [Medical Record Number]</li>
<li>Primary Diagnosis: [Primary Diagnosis, e.g., Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia]</li>
<li>Secondary Diagnoses: [Secondary Diagnoses, e.g., Anxiety, Substance Use Disorder]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Chief Complaint and Reason for Transfer:</strong></p>
<p>[Clearly state the reason for the transfer and the patient's current presentation, e.g., Patient presents with suicidal ideation and requires a higher level of care. Patient is experiencing a manic episode and requires medication adjustments].</p>
<p><strong>Mental Status Exam Findings:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Appearance: [Describe the patient’s appearance and behavior. e.g., Appears disheveled, agitated, restless.]</li>
<li>Mood: [Describe the patient's mood. e.g., Elevated, depressed, anxious.]</li>
<li>Affect: [Describe the patient's affect. e.g., Reactive, blunted, flat.]</li>
<li>Thought Process: [Describe the patient's thought process. e.g., Linear, disorganized, delusional.]</li>
<li>Thought Content: [Note any relevant thought content. e.g., Suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, paranoid delusions.]</li>
<li>Cognition: [Briefly assess cognitive function. e.g., Alert and oriented to person, place, and situation. Impaired memory.]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Current Medications:</strong></p>
<p>Please see the attached medication list. Key medications include: [List psychiatric medications and dosages, e.g., Sertraline 100mg daily, Quetiapine 200mg at bedtime]. Note the patient's compliance with medication.</p>
<p><strong>Allergies:</strong> [List all known allergies].</p>
<p><strong>Medical History:</strong> [Note any relevant medical history].</p>
<p><strong>Safety Precautions:</strong> [Detail any safety precautions, e.g., Suicidal precautions – 1:1 observation. Elopement risk. Potential for violence].</p>
<p><strong>Social History:</strong> [Briefly mention relevant social information, e.g., Living situation, support system, substance use history].</p>
<p><strong>Interventions and Treatments to Date:</strong> [Note any interventions that have been used, e.g., Medication adjustments, psychotherapy, de-escalation techniques].</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong> Please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you have any questions.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
Email Example: Transfer Note when a Patient Experiences a Sudden Change in Condition
Subject: URGENT Transfer Note – [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number] – Rapid Deterioration
<p>To: Receiving Physician / Nurse,</p>
<p>This email is to notify you of the urgent transfer of [Patient Name], MRN: [Medical Record Number].</p>
<p><strong>Patient Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Name: [Patient Name]</li>
<li>Date of Birth: [Date of Birth]</li>
<li>Medical Record Number: [Medical Record Number]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Reason for Transfer/Change in Condition:</strong></p>
<p>[Clearly and concisely explain the reason for the urgent transfer. This should include the sudden change in condition. e.g., Patient experienced a sudden onset of chest pain and shortness of breath. Suspect myocardial infarction. Patient is exhibiting signs of a stroke with new onset left-sided weakness and facial droop].</p>
<p><strong>Vital Signs (most recent):</strong></p>
<p>Temperature: [Temperature], Blood Pressure: [Blood Pressure], Heart Rate: [Heart Rate], Respirations: [Respirations], Oxygen Saturation: [Oxygen Saturation]</p>
<p><strong>Assessment Findings:</strong></p>
<p>[Describe the key assessment findings that led to the decision to transfer. Be very specific and objective. e.g., Patient is experiencing chest pain, radiating to the left arm. ECG shows ST elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. Patient reports shortness of breath and has an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air.]</p>
<p><strong>Interventions Provided:</strong></p>
<p>[List the immediate interventions that have been implemented. e.g., Oxygen administered via nasal cannula at 4L/min. IV access established. Aspirin 325mg given. Continuous cardiac monitoring.]</p>
<p><strong>Medications:</strong> [List any medications given, e.g., Morphine 2mg IV push].</p>
<p><strong>Allergies:</strong> [List allergies].</p>
<p><strong>Code Status:</strong> [Patient's code status, e.g., Full code, DNR, etc.]</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong> I will be available to discuss further at [Your Phone Number].</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
Email Example: Transfer Note for a Pediatric Patient
Subject: Transfer Note – [Patient Name], DOB: [Date of Birth], MRN: [Medical Record Number] – Pediatric
<p>To: Receiving Pediatric Team,</p>
<p>This email serves as a transfer note for [Patient Name], DOB: [Date of Birth], MRN: [Medical Record Number], who is being transferred to your unit.</p>
<p><strong>Patient Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Name: [Patient Name]</li>
<li>Date of Birth: [Date of Birth]</li>
<li>Medical Record Number: [Medical Record Number]</li>
<li>Weight: [Patient’s weight in kg or lbs]</li>
<li>Age: [Patient's age]</li>
<li>Reason for Admission: [Briefly state the reason for admission, e.g., Pneumonia, Asthma exacerbation]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Brief History:</strong></p>
<p>[Summarize the child's history, including any significant past medical history and current complaints. e.g., 5-year-old male admitted with a diagnosis of pneumonia. Patient has a history of asthma. Current complaints of cough, fever, and shortness of breath.]</p>
<p><strong>Current Assessment:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Respiratory: [Describe the respiratory status. e.g., Increased work of breathing, wheezing, oxygen saturation 92% on room air]</li>
<li>Cardiovascular: [Describe the cardiovascular status. e.g., Heart rate elevated, capillary refill < 2 seconds]</li>
<li>Neurological: [Describe the neurological status. e.g., Alert, oriented, appropriate for age]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Medications:</strong></p>
<p>Attached is the current medication list. Key medications include: [List key medications, dosages, and routes. e.g., Albuterol nebulizer treatments every 4 hours. IV antibiotics as prescribed.]</p>
<p><strong>Allergies:</strong> [List all allergies].</p>
<p><strong>Treatments:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Oxygen therapy: [Specify delivery method and flow rate, e.g., Nasal cannula at 2L/min]</li>
<li>IV fluids: [Specify the type of fluid and rate]</li>
<li>Medication administration: [Specify the medication and frequency, e.g., Antibiotics every 6 hours]</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Diet:</strong> [Specify the diet. e.g., Regular diet as tolerated. Encourage fluids.]</p>
<p><strong>Activity:</strong> [Specify the activity level. e.g., Bed rest. Encourage quiet play.]</p>
<p><strong>Parent/Guardian Information:</strong> [Include name and contact information for parents/guardians. e.g., Mother, [Mother’s Name], can be reached at [Phone Number].]</p>
<p><strong>Special Considerations:</strong> [Mention any special needs or concerns, e.g., Patient is anxious. Needs frequent reassurance. Parents are present at the bedside.]</p>
<p><strong>Contact Information:</strong> Please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] with any questions.</p>
<p>Thank you for your assistance.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>[Your Name]</p>
<p>[Your Title, e.g., Registered Nurse]</p>
<p>[Your Hospital/Facility]</p>
In conclusion, the **Transfer Note Nursing Example** is a cornerstone of effective healthcare. It ensures that the patient’s story travels with them, promoting safe and coordinated care across different settings. These examples demonstrate the importance of concise, accurate, and detailed documentation in these crucial communications. By understanding the key components and using these examples as a guide, healthcare professionals can create effective transfer notes that contribute to the overall well-being of their patients.