Evaluation of Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation Tool During Neonatal and Pediatric Interfacility Transport

Abstract Objective We aimed to determine if the implementation of Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation (SBAR) training improved the quality of real-life telephone communication. We evaluated interfacility neonatal and pediatric transports performed by registered nurses, respiratory therapists, and physicians (MDs). Methods This was a quality improvement study performed to evaluate telephone communication before and after SBAR training. Training consisted of lectures, review of audio files, and simulated role-playing. Recorded audio files of real-life transports were evaluated for clarity and content by 3 raters using a standardized scoring tool. Results Ninety-four and ninety-three calls were evaluated before and after the intervention, respectively. The total item scores were higher posttraining (mean ± standard deviation [pre: 15.06 ± 2.60, post: 17.60 ± 2.61], P < .001). Global rating scores ≥ 4 were higher in the posttraining group (pre: 50.0% vs. post: 66.7%; P = .02; odds ratio = 1.43; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.97). There was no significant difference in the duration of calls (mean ± SD [pre: 9.29 ± 4.59 minutes, post: 9.70 ± 4.65 minutes). In subgroup analysis, the total item score was significantly improved posttraining for registered nurses and respiratory therapists but not MDs. Conclusion Standardized SBAR training was effective in improving telephone communication by RNs and RTs. The inclusion of SBAR training routinely within the educational curriculum of transport programs can enhance communication.