ISBAR

The ISBAR communication framework is used to create a structured and standardised communication format between health care workers. It is particularly useful for reporting changes in a patient's status and / or deterioration between health care services or shifts

 The following is a breakdown for each ISBAR element:

Identification

  • Identify the person to whom you are speaking

  • Identify yourself, occupation and where you are calling from

Situation

  • Identify the patient by name, date of birth, age, sex, reason for admission

  • Identify what is going on with the patient (Chest pain, nausea, etc...)

Background

  • Give the patient's presenting complaint

  • Give the patient's relevant past medical history

  • Brief summary of background

Assessment

  • Vital signs: heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, temperature, oxygen saturation, pain scale, level of consciousness

  • List if any vital signs that are outside of parameters; what is your clinical impression

  • Severity of patient, additional concern

Recommendation

  • Explanation of what you require, how urgent and when action needs to be taken

  • Make suggestions of what action is to be taken

  • Clarify what action you expect to be taken

Click the link below to go to the ISBAR course on the healthLearn Learner Management System (you will need to log in to healthLearn)

ISBAR Communication Framework

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Page last reviewed: 20 April 2023