1. Introduction
SBAR stands for Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation. It is a structured framework for urgent review requests, referrals and routine handover and improves clarity when time is limited.
2. Situation
Start by stating who you are, where you are calling from and which patient you are calling about. State the immediate concern in one sentence and include the reason for escalation.
3. Background
Give a focused background including the reason for admission, key diagnoses, relevant comorbidities, allergies, ceiling of care if known, recent observations and any important investigation results. Include only information that helps the listener make a decision.
4. Assessment
Summarise your assessment clearly. This may include your A to E findings, the NEWS2 score, your interpretation of the problem and whether the patient is improving, static or deteriorating.
5. Recommendation
State exactly what you need. For example, request urgent review, advice on immediate management, or approval for a specific intervention. Confirm the agreed plan, timeframe for review and what to do if the patient deteriorates further.
Situation
Background
Assessment
Recommendation