ISBAR Communication Tool
The ISBAR Communication Tool can be used to handover patient care to a GP or other carer:
I
INTRODUCTION
Introduce yourself: your name and location, name of the resident.
S
SITUATION
What are the current concerns or reason for review?
B
BACKGROUND
What is the relevant medical history and co-morbidities?
Is the medical chart available for reference?
A
ASSESSMENT
Check all vital signs and have the observations ready for reference.
Note irregularities in the A-G Physical Assessment.
R
RECOMMENDATION
What do you think is happening?
What outcome do you want? (eg, GP review today? Rapid Response Team review?)
Handing over to a GP
Handing over to Response Team
Have the following ready when referring:
- Resident name, date of birth
- Advance Care Plan or directive
- Medication chart
- Current observations (HR, BP, Temperature, Oxygen Saturations, Respiratory Rate)