Abstract
Introduction: Inadequate patient selection for transfer to community hospitals disrupts care continuity and compromises patient safety and outcomes. The SBAR communication tool presents a promising solution to address this challenge. This study investigated the impact of SBAR on quality of care and patient outcomes.
Methods: Retrospective study involving patients admitted to Samuel Johnson and Sir Robert Peel Community Hospitals from October to November 2023. Data regarding the completion of the SBAR forms, accepted and rejected patients and reasons for rejection, and repatriation numbers were gathered. Comparisons were made against our previous study in 2021.
Results: 403 patient referrals have been made. 266 were accepted, 137 (34%) were rejected. Of the rejected patients 52 were due to medical reasons, while 85 were non-medical reasons. Compared to data from 2021, 137 out of 403 referrals (34%) were rejected in 2023, 3 out of 155 (2%) were rejected in 2021. There were 76 repatriations in 2023 (average of 26/month), whereas there were 139 repatriations in 2021 (average of 46.33/month). The decrease from 139 repatriations in 2021 to 78 in 2023 indicates a notable improvement in patient outcomes and healthcare management strategies. The decrease in repatriations not only reflects potential cost savings but also underscores the efficacy of interventions aimed at minimizing healthcare disruptions and optimizing patient well-being.
Conclusion: By facilitating a standardized and comprehensive handover between acute and community providers, SBAR ensures patients receive the appropriate level of care at the community setting. Moreover, SBAR empowers healthcare staff to confidently make decisions regarding transfer acceptance or rejection, prioritizing patient well-being throughout the process. The findings revealed significant improvements in both the quality of care and patient safety following the adoption of SBAR. Additionally, SBAR utilization demonstrated a notable reduction in the financial burden on the NHS.