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Shift Key: Reference Shifts Without Patient Names

  • Updated

Overview

A Shift Key is a unique 6-character code assigned to each shift posting. It lets caregivers and coordinators talk about shifts without sharing patient names.

When a caregiver calls about a shift, they can give you the Shift Key instead of saying the patient's name. You can then search for that code to find the exact shift they're asking about.

This keeps patient information private while making it easy to identify shifts.

Quick Reference

What is a Shift Key?

  • A 6-character code like "ABC123" assigned to each shift.

Where do caregivers find it?

  • On the shift card in the Caribou app.

How do I search by Shift Key?

  • Enter the code in the search bar on the Shifts page.

Do I need to type it exactly?

  • No. The system ignores dashes and spaces. "ABC-123" works the same as "ABC123".

How Caregivers Use the Shift Key

Caregivers see the Shift Key on each shift card in the Caribou app. It appears with a key icon.

When a caregiver has a question about a shift, they can:

  1. Open the shift card in the app.
  2. Find the Shift Key (example: "ABC123").
  3. Share the code with you by phone, text, or chat.

This avoids sharing patient names over unsecured channels.

How Coordinators Search by Shift Key

When a caregiver gives you a Shift Key:

  1. Go to the Shifts page in the admin dashboard.
  2. Enter the Shift Key in the search bar.
  3. The matching shift will appear in your results.

You can now view the full shift details, including patient information, on your secure screen.

Good to Know

  • Shift Keys use only clear characters. The code won't include letters that look like numbers (no I, L, O, or U). This makes it easier to read over the phone.
  • Formatting doesn't matter. If a caregiver says "A-B-C-1-2-3" or "ABC 123", just type the letters and numbers. The system will find the right shift.
  • Each shift has one active Shift Key. The code stays the same for the life of that shift posting.
  • Shift Keys are unique per agency. No two shifts at your agency will have the same code.

Troubleshooting

  • Shift Key not found: Double-check that you typed the code correctly. Make sure you're searching within the right date range or shift status filter.
  • Caregiver doesn't see the Shift Key: The Shift Key appears on the shift card in the caregiver app. If they can't find it, ask them to open the specific shift they're asking about.

Need help?

Contact Caribou support at support@caribou.care or through the in-app chat.