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Handoff Communication at Shift Change

BeginnerProfessional Practice

Educational Use Only. This app is not intended to replace instructor guidance, institutional policies, clinical judgment, or professional medical training.

Clinical Scenario

It is 19:00 shift change. You are giving report on Mr. Rodriguez, a 64-year-old post-op day 1 from an open cholecystectomy. He has a PCA morphine pump, a Jackson-Pratt drain, and an indwelling Foley catheter. His pain is well-controlled at 2/10. You need to give a concise, organized SBAR handoff to the oncoming nurse.

S

Situation

State the patient's name, room, and the main reason they are hospitalized.

B

Background

Include the surgical procedure, relevant history, and current lines/tubes/drains.

A

Assessment

Share current vital signs, pain status, drain output, and any concerns or changes during your shift.

R

Recommendation

State what needs to be monitored closely and any pending tasks or orders for the next shift.

Educational Use Only — Not a substitute for professional training.