SBAR

How it is used

Widely used when calling a doctor about a deteriorating patient and in handover. The nurse states the problem (S), gives relevant history (B), reports findings and their own view (A) and says what they need (R), for example: 'I'd like you to come and review him in the next 15 minutes.' Said as 'ess-bar'.

Example sentences

1. Use SBAR when you ring the doctor; it keeps the call short and clear.

2. We practised SBAR handovers with a simulated patient during induction.

Common collocations

• use SBAR
• SBAR handover
• SBAR call
• SBAR format

Related terms

• handoverThe passing of information and responsibility for patients from one nurse or team to the next, usually at the change of shift.
• escalateTo pass a concern about a patient to a more senior or specialist person, such as the nurse in charge or a doctor, so that they can act on it.
• deteriorateTo become worse, especially when a patient's condition or vital signs change in a way that shows they are becoming more unwell.
• assessmentA careful, organised check of a patient's physical and mental condition and needs, used to plan and adjust their nursing care.

More terms: Ward Routines and Handover

• shift
• admission
• discharge
• ward
• ward round
• charge nurse
• check on