The nurse comprehensively assessed Bill using the 5 domains of holistic assessment during the home visit. The SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation) technique is a communication tool designed to be used between members of the healthcare team about a patient’s condition. It allows staff an easy and focused way to set expectations for what will be communicated and to ensure they get a timely and appropriate response. It is part of the Scottish Patient Safety Programme. Let’s use it to consider Bill’s situation and what should happen next.
| The SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation) technique | |
|---|---|
| S (Situation): |
|
| B (Background): | Bill is an elderly man who lives alone. He has had a recent discharge from hospital and has co-morbidities with heart failure. Initial discussion shows his background, physical, emotional and social aspects all seem to be affected. (this may include observations, physical examination, medication review, symptom assessment and nurses assessment) |
| A (assessment): | Further current observations, physical examination, medication review, symptom assessment and nurse’s assessment required to compare and consider. Together with the above information means the nurse can holistically assess the situation including Bills perception of this. |
| R (Recommendation): | The nurse recognises she may require further information and Bill’s timely review by an additional professional(s) to consider Bill’s care now. |
Reference: NES Patient Safety Zone
Page last reviewed: 28 Jul 2020
