Clinical Communication Beginner Clinical Communication

SBAR

Formal Definition

Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation - a structured communication framework for clinical handoffs and urgent calls.

How It's Used on the Ward

"Use SBAR when you call the resident" - give information in a structured format.

Example

"S: "I'm calling about Mr. Jones in 412 who is desaturating." B: "He's a 68yo admitted for PNA on 2L." A: "I'm concerned he may be developing respiratory failure." R: "I'd like you to come evaluate and consider BiPAP.""

Clinical Context

SBAR is the gold standard for nurse-to-doctor and student-to-resident communication. Mastering it makes you sound prepared and professional.

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