Should I use SBAR when rounding with doctors??

Nurses Relations

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Im a new nurse and I was just wondering if anyone had any tips on what to discuss with doctors when rounding with them. Should I use SBAR? I was always told in school to use SBAR, but I feel like a real moron reading off the SBAR to the Doctor. I really want to improve my communication skills. Im welcome to any tips.

Thanks,

Justin

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

In my humble opinion, you should use the SBAR tool to communicate with any provider with whom you are not personally familiar. Once you get to know the provider a little better, you will be able to figure out what information he/she wants and communicate it more directly.

Also, know whom to use the 'recommendation' part with. Some physicians will welcome your recommendations, whereas others don't want a nurse recommending anything to them.

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I have tried to use the SBAR and a doctor told me one time just tell me what you want lol. I was recently asked for the first time in over 2 years as being a nurse to give the doctor a SBAR lol.

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Specializes in Oncology; medical specialty website.
I have tried to use the SBAR and a doctor told me one time just tell me what you want lol. I was recently asked for the first time in over 2 years as being a nurse to give the doctor a SBAR lol.

Exactly. When doctors are rounding, they are busy (aren't we all, though?). They'll want you to get to the point. I would make sure I had my assessment and results of labs/studies at the ready. I would make sure I knew exactly what I wanted the doc to order and/or I would ask the doc for appropriate order.

To me, SBAR is a lot like nursing diagnosis. It teaches you how to think through calling a physician about a problem with a patient.

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What we present during rounds: Lines, tubes, drains; infusions; significant lab values reported out after 0600; and significant assessment findings and concerns. Anything else that they want to know, they will ask you directly.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

Moved to the Nurse Colleague / Pt Relations forum for more responses.

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Specializes in ER.

If I am asking for something in a busy ER, I will tell the doctor RM 2, R hip pain that fell, X, Y, Z.

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