The implementation of SBAR communication method for patient safety: A literature review

Abstract

Background: Effective communication is one of the important factors in improving patient safety in hospitals. The SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) communication method has been recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a tool to convey clear and structured clinical information among health workers.

Purpose: To determine the effectiveness, impact, and challenges of implementing SBAR communication in the implementation of patient safety.

Method: A literature review design. The databases used include Google Scholar, Science Direct, Pubmed, and Semantic Scholar. English keywords employed are "patient safety", "SBAR", and "Communication". Articles were included if they involved nurses in hospitals or health profession students, with no limit on sample size, and encompassed experimental, quantitative, and qualitative research. Only full-text articles in Indonesian or English published in the last 5 years (2019-2023) were considered. Article selection followed PRISMA guidelines.

Results: Based on the search results, 18 articles met the inclusion criteria. The analysis identified three main topics: the effectiveness of SBAR training and education in enhancing communication skills and patient safety among nurses, and strategies to boost adherence and consistency in SBAR implementation. Overall, the use of SBAR communication has been shown to enhance communication, decrease errors, increase job satisfaction, and strengthen the safety culture among healthcare workers.

Conclusion: The use of SBAR communication has demonstrated significant effectiveness and impact on patient safety in hospitals. However, to maximize the benefits of SBAR, it is crucial to provide consistent support, standardized training, and continuous evaluation to ensure its successful implementation in the healthcare setting.