Data collection
Data collection was conducted at different points in time. Baseline patient data was collected before the ward round. During the ward rounds, which were conducted between 09:00 and 11:00, an observer from the research team was present to document timing (ie, the duration of the ward round allocated per patient). All visits were recorded with an Apple iPad with the device-internal ‘Voice Memo’ software and rated afterwards by the research team. This approach allowed for the coding of various predefined sensitive topics and elements of communication. After the ward rounds, a second blinded member of the research team interviewed participating patients using a standardised questionnaire. All case report forms and items have been described in the original trial.