Effectiveness of nursing training program regarding SBAR on patient outcomes

Abstract

Background & objective: Effective communication is essential to ensure patient safety and quality care. The SBAR model (Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation) provides a structured approach for exchanging information in clinical settings. This study investigates the impact of SBAR education on nurses’ knowledge and its role in enhancing patient outcomes in critical care units.

Methodology:  This quasi-experimental study included 80 nurses and 80 patients from two public hospitals in Najaf. Nurses were non-randomly divided into two groups: an intervention group (n = 40) that received SBAR training, and a control group (n = 40) with no training. Patients were equally assigned to each group based on the nurses providing their care. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, nurses’ SBAR knowledge, and patient clinical outcomes at the bedside.

Results: Post-test results revealed a notable improvement in nurses' SBAR knowledge, with an average score rising to 1.85 compared to 0.25 in the pre-test. Patient outcomes also improved within the intervention group, where more patients were classified as “not critically ill” and showed better respiratory and cardiovascular function (80% and 65%, respectively).

Conclusion: Implementing an SBAR training program for nurses in Najaf Governorate hospitals can significantly enhance their knowledge of structured communication and lead to positive improvements in patient outcomes in critical care settings.

Abbreviations: SBAR: Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation

Keywords: Communication; Education; Hospital; Knowledge; Nurses: Nursing, Patient Handoff, SBAR; Treatment Outcome

Citation: Abdulsadah MA, Al-Abedi HMH. Effectiveness of nursing training program regarding the ‘SBAR’ model for information exchange on patient outcomes. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2025;29(6):756-763; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v29i7.2961

Received: June 25, 2025; Revised: July 10, 2025; Accepted: July 20, 2025