n of care.
Haack and Shawá(1996) reported guidelines that were developed to help determine the intensity of nursing care needed by patients. Patients were classified into intensive, intermediate, or general levels of nursing care, which was based on parameters that included airway, frequency of observation, and hemodynamics. Intensive patients were most often in the PICU/IMC unit, since patients were sent to units consistent with their classification. A coding system identified the classifications. Communication and coordination of patient care between unites was established by a protocol: charge nurses of both units discussed patient status every shift and made decisions regarding transfers; when a transfer was needed the attending physician was paged one-half hour before the transfer; residents were notified by page following ht transfer; transfer notes were written in progress notes by the nurse; and all transfers were completed early, not later than 3:00 pm.
Currently, no orders are required for transfer except when services ar
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