What is SBAR and why is it used in nursing handoffs?

• A. Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation; standardizes communication to improve patient safety and information transfer.
• B. A general communication protocol used for medical orders.
• C. A standardized checklist for discharge planning.
• D. A method for documenting nursing investigations.

Answer: (A)

SBAR is a structured communication framework used during nursing handoffs to ensure critical information is conveyed clearly and quickly. It stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation. In practice, you briefly state the current situation, provide relevant background history, share your assessment of the patient’s condition, and clearly state what you recommend or request next. This standardization creates a common language, reduces omissions, and supports timely escalation, which helps protect patient safety during shift changes, patient transfers, or when a patient’s condition changes. It’s distinct from general orders, discharge planning, or documenting investigations, which do not follow this concise four-part handoff structure.