The Microtransition Adverse Event Sign-In/Sign-Out (MASS) Form: A Potential Solution to Communication Barriers for Outpatient Medical Appointments and Nonmedical Outings in Post-Acute and Long-Term Care

Nonurgent outings, such as routine medical appointments or nonmedical (eg, recreational) outings, are common occurrences in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and assisted living communities (ALCs). These outings involve changes in location and custodial responsibility of the resident—similar to interfacility transitions of care (eg, admissions, discharges). Thus, these microtransitions in care carry similar risks as larger transitions (eg, falls, medication errors, other adverse events). However, unlike admissions/discharges, outpatient medical appointments and nonmedical outings receive less clinical and administrative attention.