SBAR handoff template

Tailor the template by adding department-specific fields that address your unique patient population needs. For ICU handoffs, add sections for ventilator settings or vasoactive medications. For pediatrics, include growth parameters and parental contact information. Review your department’s most common communication gaps, then modify the assessment section to specifically address these areas while maintaining the core SBAR structure.

Begin filling out the SBAR template approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled handoff to ensure accuracy and completeness. Update critical information like vital signs and medication administration just before the actual handoff occurs. This timing balance allows you to thoroughly document the patient’s status while ensuring the information remains current. For unexpected transfers, complete essential sections immediately and update as more information becomes available.

Document sensitive information factually and objectively in the background section without including subjective judgments. Note relevant psychiatric history, substance use, or family dynamics only if directly impacting current care needs. When handling sensitive diagnoses like HIV status or domestic violence concerns, follow your facility’s protocols for confidentiality while ensuring the receiving provider has necessary information for safe care.

The assessment section captures your professional clinical judgment about the patient’s condition based on available data—what you believe is happening with the patient. The recommendation section outlines specific actions you suggest should happen next. Assessment might note “patient showing signs of sepsis,” while recommendation would specify “recommend starting sepsis protocol, obtaining blood cultures, and administering antibiotics within one hour.”