Objective To explore the effect of task list in combination with the SOAP format in nurse shift handover in the general medicine department.Methods A standardized task list was developed for intershift handover and the SOAP format was used for handover of critically ill patients.The quality and errors in shift handover were compared between 587 cases using purely verbal handover style and 605 cases using the novel handover style.Results The quality of shift report was significantly enhanced, whereas errors were significantly decreased after implementation of the novel handover shift style （all P＜0.05）.Conclusion The application of task list combined with the SOAP format for nurse shift handover can improve bedside handover quality and ensure patient safety.