Should I use SBAR when rounding with doctors??

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Apr 18, 2016

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.

annieboo444 · Apr 18, 2016

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.

OCNRN63, RN · Apr 18, 2016

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.

chare · Apr 18, 2016

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.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Apr 22, 2016

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

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · Apr 22, 2016

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.