What does "SBAR" stand for in communication?

SBAR is a structured communication framework that stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation. This method improves the clarity and efficiency of communication, particularly in healthcare settings, where clear and concise exchanges of information can significantly impact patient care and safety.

• The "Situation" provides a brief overview of the immediate issue or concern that needs to be addressed.

• "Background" offers pertinent information that helps contextualize the situation, including patient history and any relevant data.

• "Assessment" presents the professional’s interpretation of the data and the current status of the situation or patient.

• Finally, "Recommendation" allows the communicator to suggest a course of action or what they believe should happen next in addressing the issue.

This structured approach is particularly valuable during handoffs and critical conversations within healthcare teams, promoting effective and focused dialogue while reducing the risk of miscommunication.