Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI). (n.d.). SBAR tool: Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation. https://www.ihi.org/library/tools/sbar-tool-situation-background-assessment-recommendation 

This tool provides a ready-to-use SBAR template with examples for structuring handoffs. It offers nurses practical scripts to guide their communication during transitions. Clinicians can print, carry, or integrate it into EHR smart phrases. This matters because it provides immediate, practical support for consistent adoption of SBAR. 

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). (2023). TeamSTEPPS 3.0 pocket guide (I-PASS & handoff aids). https://www.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/wysiwyg/teamstepps-program/teamstepps-pocket-guide.pdf 

This pocket guide provides concise reminders and handoff checklists, including SBAR and I-PASS comparisons. It offers quick reference for busy clinical settings. Nurses can use it at the bedside to reinforce structured reporting. This matters because having accessible aids increases adherence to standardized handoff processes. 

Abbaszade, A., Assarroudi, A., Armat, M. R., Rakhshani, M. H., & Mousavi, S. H. (2021). Evaluation of the impact of handoff based on the SBAR technique on quality of nursing care. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, 36(3), E38–E43. https://doi.org/10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000498 

This quasi-experimental study shows that SBAR-based handoffs significantly improve overall nursing care quality, measured through standardized care quality instruments. It provides evidence that SBAR contributes to better continuity, documentation, and patient satisfaction. Nurse managers can use these findings to justify handoff redesign as part of broader quality initiatives. This matters because SBAR not only prevents errors but also enhances care quality across dimensions. 

Toumi, D., et al. (2024). The SBAR tool for communication and patient safety in medical training and practice: A cross-sectional study in a middle-income country. BMC Medical Education, 24, 1036. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05210-x 

This cross-sectional study explores clinician knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding SBAR. It provides data on adoption barriers and enablers, such as staff perceptions and workflow challenges. Leaders can use this to inform coaching, audits, and change management strategies. This matters because understanding real-world barriers allows for targeted interventions that improve SBAR compliance.

Suggested SBAR Tools & Templates