SBAR
SBAR is a communication method widely used in healthcare settings, especially by nurses. It stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation. Think of it as a standardized way for healthcare workers to share important patient information with each other, like during shift changes or when calling a doctor. It's similar to passing a baton in a relay race – making sure all crucial information gets passed along clearly. When you see SBAR on a resume, it shows that the candidate knows how to communicate effectively in healthcare settings.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented SBAR communication protocol for shift handoffs, improving patient care coordination
Trained new nurses on SBAR reporting methods for effective team communication
Utilized SBAR technique to communicate critical patient information to physicians and healthcare team members
Typical job title: "Nurses"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Nurses
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a time when you implemented or improved SBAR protocols in your unit?
Expected Answer: A senior nurse should discuss their experience in training others, creating standardized forms, and measuring improvement in communication outcomes after implementation.
Q: How would you modify SBAR for different healthcare settings?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to adapt SBAR for different departments (ER vs. long-term care), different shift changes, and various types of patient situations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Give an example of using SBAR in an emergency situation.
Expected Answer: Should be able to walk through a real scenario showing how they organized critical information using the SBAR format under pressure.
Q: How do you ensure SBAR handoffs are complete during busy shifts?
Expected Answer: Should discuss practical strategies for maintaining thorough communication even during hectic times, including use of tools or checklists.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the four components of SBAR and why are they important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation in simple terms and why each part matters for patient care.
Q: How would you use SBAR when calling a doctor about a patient concern?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of organizing information before making a call and presenting it clearly and concisely.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic SBAR format understanding
- Routine shift report delivery
- Standard patient status updates
- Basic documentation skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Emergency situation communication
- Team communication leadership
- Complex patient case reporting
- New staff SBAR training
Senior (5+ years)
- SBAR protocol development
- Communication system improvement
- Staff training program creation
- Quality improvement initiatives
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain the basic components of SBAR
- Poor verbal communication skills during interview
- No experience with shift handoffs or patient reports
- Resistance to using structured communication methods
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