When preparing to contact a physician about a patient's condition, which order should the nurse follow using SBAR communication?

The SBAR communication framework is designed to provide a structured and efficient way to convey critical information about a patient’s condition to a physician or other healthcare provider. The correct order of SBAR is:

1. Situation: Start by clearly stating the current situation regarding the patient. This includes identifying yourself and the patient and explaining the reason for the communication.

2. Background: Provide relevant background information that pertains to the patient’s medical history, current treatment, and any other contextual factors that are helpful in understanding the situation.

3. Assessment: Share your assessment of the patient's condition. This includes any observations or findings that support your perspective on the patient's health status.

4. Recommendation: Finally, propose what you think should happen next. This might involve suggesting a specific treatment, further tests, or a consultation depending on the situation.

Using this order ensures clarity and allows for a logical flow of information, making it easier for the physician to understand the urgent nature of the patient's condition and respond appropriately. This structured approach is fundamental in healthcare communication, promoting safety and efficacy in patient care.