SBAR can be used to communicate information between healthcare professionals, i.e., from nurse to physician or allied healthcare professional, as well as when relaying information to a patient or their caregivers.
It is commonly used during shift change between nurses as well as when transferring a patient to other units.
- For example, a nurse will use SBAR when a patient is being transferred to a higher (med-surg to ICU) or lower level of care (ICU to med-surg)
Additionally, during a code event, SBAR can be helpful in delivering concise and relevant information. - SBAR communication is broken down into defined categories that stress concise language. Every important point is included in a simple and straightforward way that saves time, reduces the need for questions, and improves understanding.
SBAR is particularly effective for emergent situations, but is also useful when:
- A patient is first being admitted
- When a patient is being transferred from one care unit or team to another
- When a new nursing shift arrives and needs to be apprised of a patient’s condition
- For updating the patient or their family members about their current status and care plan
What Does SBAR Stand For?
SBAR emphasizes observation, critical thinking, decision-making, and communication. The acronym stands for:
• S = Situation
A brief description and summary of who the patient is and what is happening with them. It may include the patient’s name, age, room number or care unit, as well as who you are and the role you play in the patient’s care.
• B = Background
Brief synopsis of the patient’s history. This may include date and time of admission, admitting diagnosis, lab and diagnostic test results, and changes in status.
• A = Assessment
Professional nursing opinion of what is happening.
• R = Recommendation
Professional nursing recommendations for the next steps are based on your knowledge of the patient, your assessment of their status, and relevant subjective and objective data.