What does the acronym SBAR stand for in TeamSTEPPS?

The correct answer, which stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation, is a structured communication tool designed to facilitate effective information exchange in healthcare settings. Each component of this acronym serves a specific role in promoting clarity and efficiency during communication among team members.

The "Situation" component highlights the current issue or condition that necessitates communication. It ensures that team members quickly understand the critical aspects of the case at hand.

"Background" provides context relevant to the situation by including information such as the patient’s history or the events leading up to the current issue. This information is crucial in helping team members grasp the overall context without needing to sift through excessive details.

The "Assessment" portion refers to the evaluation or analysis of the situation, which helps in conveying the healthcare professional's interpretation regarding the current state. This fosters a shared understanding of the clinical implications.

Lastly, "Recommendation" is about proposing actionable steps or solutions based on the information presented. This component is vital in guiding team members toward consensus on what actions to take next.

This structured approach minimizes misunderstandings and enhances the team’s ability to respond effectively, ultimately improving patient safety and care quality.