Collaborative communication: integrating SBAR to improve quality/patient safety outcomes

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Communication Strategies
• Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
• Patient Safety Research

Background:

• Open communication fosters teamwork, staff satisfaction, and patient safety.
• The need for standardized communication tools in healthcare settings is critical.
• Previous studies highlight the impact of communication on clinical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a collaborative communication evidence-based practice (EBP) initiative.
• To integrate the Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR) communication process within a pediatrics/perinatal services department.
• To assess the impact of SBAR integration on communication, collaboration, satisfaction, and patient safety.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized evidence-based practice (EBP) processes to frame the intervention.
• A mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative and qualitative strategies, was employed for evaluation.
• The intervention involved implementing the SBAR communication tool in a specific hospital department.

Main Results:

• Staff successfully transferred evidence, knowledge, and skills into practice.
• Enhanced communication and collaboration among staff were observed.
• Improvements in staff satisfaction and patient safety outcomes were achieved, meeting study objectives.

Conclusions:

• The integration of SBAR communication is an effective evidence-based practice for improving healthcare environments.
• Collaborative communication strategies positively influence teamwork, staff satisfaction, and patient safety.
• The study successfully demonstrated the transfer of EBP knowledge and skills into clinical practice.