SBAR Communication Framework

SBAR Communication Framework

Overview of SBAR

  • SBAR is a communication framework commonly used in health care settings, particularly in acute care settings.

  • The principles of SBAR can be applied in any context, not just in healthcare.

  • SBAR stands for:

    • Situation

    • Background

    • Assessment

    • Recommendation

  • The primary goals include:

    • Streamlining communication

    • Minimizing miscommunication

    • Improving clarity regarding patient care

Application of SBAR

  • Situations Requiring SBAR:

    • SBAR is not needed for routine communication or updates; it's intended for issues that are out of the ordinary or require immediate action and attention.

Components of SBAR
1. Situation

  • Definition: The situation describes what you are observing or the reason for the communication.

  • Example: "Mr. James Doe reports new onset of shortness of breath while transferring from bed to chair."

2. Background

  • Definition: The background provides pertinent information related to the situation being discussed.

  • Example: "Mr. James Doe was admitted two days ago with a lower extremity fracture. He has a history of blood clot following a prior surgery and currently reports a 12-hour history of progressive or severe right calf pain."

3. Assessment

  • Definition: The assessment reflects your hypothesis or clinical judgment regarding the patient’s condition or situation.

  • Example: "My assessment is that Mr. Doe is at high risk for a blood clot and I'm concerned he may have a pulmonary embolism or other acute respiratory problem."

4. Recommendation

  • Definition: The recommendation outlines what you suggest should be done next regarding the patient’s care or situation.

  • Example: "My recommendation is to hold physical therapy today pending further assessment for a possible pulmonary embolus or other acute respiratory condition."

Complete SBAR Communication for Case Example

  • Situation: "Mr. Doe reports with new onset of shortness of breath while transferring from bed to chair."

  • Background: "He was admitted two days ago with a lower extremity fracture. He has a history of a blood clot following a prior surgery and reports a 12-hour history of progressive and severe right calf pain with more recent onset of shortness of breath with transfers."

  • Assessment: "Mr. Doe is at high risk of a blood clot, and I'm concerned he may have pulmonary embolism or another acute respiratory problem."

  • Recommendation: "Hold off on physical therapy today pending further assessment for possible embolus or other acute respiratory condition."

Benefits and Importance of the SBAR Framework

  • Simplicity and Conciseness: The model is designed to present information in a simple and concise manner, making communication clearer.

  • Timely Communication: It emphasizes the necessity of clear communication to avoid misunderstandings, which is particularly critical in high-pressure medical environments.

  • Skill Development:

    • Clear and concise communication is a skill that can improve with time and experience.

    • Taking time to organize thoughts before communicating offers significant benefits for patients and fosters strong relationships among care providers.

Reflection on SBAR Usage

  • Considerations for students:

    • How would SBAR help as a physical therapy clinical student or future clinician?

    • How would you feel if another care provider utilized SBAR in presenting patient information to you in the clinic?

  • These reflections aim to enhance understanding and appreciate the value of structured communication in clinical settings.