What does the acronym SBAR stand for in nursing?

The acronym SBAR stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation. This communication framework is widely used in nursing and healthcare generally to promote effective and structured communication between healthcare providers.

In this context, the 'Situation' refers to the current circumstance or issue that requires attention, allowing for a clear understanding of the immediate problem. 'Background' provides relevant information about the patient or situation, which helps give context to the issue being presented. The 'Assessment' involves detailing findings from the healthcare provider's examination or analysis, ensuring that all pertinent observations are considered. Finally, 'Recommendation' outlines the proposed solutions or actions required to address the situation effectively.

This structured communication tool is essential in enhancing teamwork and improving patient safety by ensuring that critical information is conveyed clearly and efficiently during handovers, reports, and discussions among healthcare professionals.