German Nursing Vocabulary – Part V: Shift Handover & Reporting Phrases
Clear communication during shift handovers is vital in every hospital. Using the right German Nursing Handover Phrases ensures patient safety and smooth teamwork. If you’d like to practise these phrases in real scenarios, book a free trial class in our beginner-friendly German A1 Course.
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
🔄 Basic Shift Handover Phrases
“Ich übergebe jetzt an die Früh-/Spätschicht.” (I’m handing over to the early/late shift.)
“Patient Müller braucht heute noch eine Blutabnahme.” (Patient Müller still needs a blood test today.)
“Die Vitalwerte sind stabil/instabil.” (The vital signs are stable/unstable.)
“Bitte achten Sie auf seine Temperatur.” (Please keep an eye on his temperature.)
📝 Reporting Changes & Updates
“Der Verband wurde gewechselt.” (The dressing has been changed.)
“Die Medikation wurde angepasst.” (The medication has been adjusted.)
“Er/Sie klagt über Schmerzen im Rücken.” (He/She complains of back pain.)
“Keine besonderen Vorkommnisse in der Nacht.” (No special incidents during the night.)
❓ Clarifying During Handover
“Können Sie das bitte wiederholen?” (Could you please repeat that?)
“Was hat der Arzt dazu gesagt?” (What did the doctor say about it?)
“Wer ist heute zuständig für die Medikation?” (Who is responsible for the medication today?)
“Gibt es noch etwas Wichtiges?” (Is there anything else important?)
🗂️ Short Example Dialogue
A: “Ich übergebe jetzt. Patientin Schneider bekommt heute Physiotherapie.”
B: “Alles klar, ich erinnere den Therapeuten daran.”
(A: I’m handing over now. Patient Schneider has physiotherapy today. B: All right, I’ll remind the therapist.)
📑 Writing Short Reports
“RR 120/80, Puls 78, Temperatur 37°C.”
“Medikamente verabreicht laut Plan.”
“Patient wach, orientiert, mobilisiert.”
“Keine Komplikationen.”
✅ Summary
Knowing these German Nursing Handover Phrases helps you feel more confident at work. Accurate handovers save lives and prevent mistakes. If you want to speak naturally with patients and colleagues, book your free trial class and start learning with us today!
❓ FAQs
What phrases help nurses during handover?
Clear updates on patient status, new doctor orders, medication, and tasks for the next shift.
How can I practise German handover phrases?
Join live role-play sessions in our German A1 Course or read more in our Nursing in Germany guide.
Why is shift handover so important?
Proper handovers ensure patient safety and keep everyone informed.
Where can I learn more about working as a nurse in Germany?
Read about Ausbildung in Germany or visit DAAD for official nursing programs.
Related Posts
Everyday Life in Germany: A Guide for Expats and Visitors
German Nursing Vocabulary Part IV: Telephone & Coordination Phrases