Clinical Ward Rounds—Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

Hospitalised patients’ needs are complex and the ward environment is demanding of time and resources that must be optimised. Clinical ward rounds in hospitalised patients are fundamental to patient care. Ward rounds in recent years have undergone changes which have contributed to reduced professionalism and opportunities to learn as well as increased distrust of patients of the care they receive. Calls for a revival of the traditional ward rounds have been sounded which we must contextualise in modern settings. This commentary calls for a clearer definition of the purpose of ward rounds, outlines the roles and responsibilities of those involved in rounds, defines a 4-step process in the conduct of a ward round, and seeks support from hospitals’ management in the facilitation and implementation of these. Key words: Patients, Process, Professionalism, Teaching