Give an SBAR handoff at shift change

Practice the Joint Commission SBAR order from clinical communication training so recommendations are not given before situation and background.

1. State the situation: who you are, the patient, and the immediate problem.
2. Give the background: relevant history, meds, and why they are here.
3. Report the assessment: current vitals, findings, and your read of the problem.
4. State the recommendation: what you need the incoming clinician to do.
5. Confirm the incoming clinician can repeat the priority actions.
6. Document the handoff time and receiver.