Compassionate Communication Through TeamSTEPPS

Vocabulary flashcards covering TeamSTEPPS communication tools, SBAR components, and the role of documentation in patient safety.

TeamSTEPPS

An acronym for Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety.

CUS Words

A communication tool consisting of the terms Concerned, Uncomfortable, and Safety Issue used to raise concerns respectfully.

Check-Back

A closed-loop communication method where the sender gives a message, the receiver repeats it back, and the sender confirms the message is correct.

SBAR

A standardized communication framework consisting of Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation.

Situation (S)

The component of SBAR that identifies what is currently happening, such as a patient reporting $8/10$ pain.

Background (B)

The component of SBAR that provides the context for a situation, such as a patient being $2$ hours post-op from an appendectomy.

Assessment (A)

The component of SBAR where the communicator states what they believe the problem is, such as pain not being relieved by current orders.

Recommendation (R)

The component of SBAR where a specific action is suggested, like requesting evaluation for stronger pain control.

Call-Out

A tool used in emergencies to announce critical information clearly, such as a blood pressure dropping to $78/40$ or oxygen saturation falling to $82\%$, to ensure the whole team is aware.

Documentation

A nursing responsibility and communication tool that reflects professional judgment, protects the nurse's license, and ensures continuity of patient care.

Closed-Loop Communication (Written)

In urgent or crisis situations, documentation acts as the written version of this communication tool by capturing timelines and tracking orders accurately.