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How does the nurse ensure effective communication during handoff?
Asked on Dec 28, 2025
Answer
Effective communication during handoff is crucial for ensuring patient safety and continuity of care. Nurses use structured tools like SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) to provide clear, concise, and relevant information during handoff.
Example Nursing Steps:
- Step 1 – Begin with the Situation: Clearly state the patient's current condition and any immediate concerns.
- Step 2 – Provide Background: Offer pertinent medical history, recent treatments, and changes in condition.
- Step 3 – Conclude with Assessment and Recommendation: Share your clinical assessment and any recommendations for ongoing care or monitoring.
Additional Comment:
- Use active listening and confirm understanding by asking questions or summarizing key points.
- Prioritize critical information that impacts patient safety and immediate care needs.
- Document the handoff communication in the patient's record as part of the continuity of care.
- Consider using a standardized checklist to ensure all necessary information is covered.
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