October 5, 2026
Host
Welcome to At the Bedside. If you are a patient or family member at Covenant Medical Center, this is for you. We are glad you are here.
Guest
You may notice nurses talking at your bedside when one shift ends and another begins. That is bedside shift report. It is a conversation, not a secret.
Host
So what happens during that conversation?
Guest
Your outgoing nurse and oncoming nurse review important details about your care, and they include you. You are part of that report.
Host
And that inclusion matters. Your voice matters.
Guest
You know things about your experience that may not be obvious from a chart or screen. Your perspective is valuable.
Host
But some patients might think, I am not a nurse. Should I speak up?
Guest
You do not need to become the expert. Your nurses bring clinical knowledge. You bring your experience of your care. Both matter.
Host
What can patients actually do during bedside shift report?
Guest
You can listen, ask a question, correct something that sounds wrong, or share a concern. All are welcome.
Host
And you can share what matters most for the next shift, right?
Guest
Exactly. Participation is your choice. Some days you may ask questions. Other days you may simply listen. That is okay.
Host
What if something sensitive needs to be discussed?
Guest
Bedside shift report can include a private portion when sensitive information should not be discussed openly. The patient decides who is included.
Host
So it is not about putting patients on the spot. It is about partnership.
Guest
And those nurses do their best work when patients, families, and caregivers are part of the conversation.
Host
So if someone is nervous, what are three simple things to remember?
Guest
Listen. Ask. Share. Listen to your care plan. Ask about something you do not understand. Share what matters to you.
Host
Because this is more than a report between two nurses. It is your care. And there is a place for your voice at the bedside. Thank you for joining us.