ISBAR is a practical tool for guiding staff in how to structure and exchange information for improved communication.
ISBAR stands for:
- Identify — self and others
- Situation — state the purpose of the call / contact and is it urgent?
- Background — tell the story
- Assessment — your interpretation of the situation and degree of certainty
- Request — state what you want from the other person.
A number of resources have been designed to help implement ISBAR in your organisation. These tools can be customised to meet your needs.
In accordance with VMIA's Copyright Licence, ISBAR tools and templates are intended for information purposes only. VMIA encourages the free transfer, copying, alteration and printing of ISBAR tools and templates if such activities support the purpose and intent for which the ISBAR tools and templates were developed.
Training scenarios
View practical videos demonstrating the use of the ISBAR communication tool.
ISBAR training materials
- Implementation Checklist [DOCX, 87KB]
- Action Handout [PDF, 74KB]
- Medical Scenario Exercise [PDF, 92KB]
- Medical Scenario Answer Guide [PDF, 92KB]
- Presentation for Senior Staff [PPT, 352KB]
- Presentation for Staff [PPT, 717KB]
- Evaluation Form (pre-session) [DOCX, 288KB]
- Evaluation Form (post-session) [DOCX, 267KB]
ISBAR templates
- A5 Pad [PDF, 43KB]
- Lanyard Card [PDF, 87KB]
- Phone Sticker Sample Forms [DOCX, 8KB]
- Birth Suite Phone Record [DOCX, 59KB]
- Diagnostic Imaging Request [DOCX, 18KB]
- Emergency Department Transfer Form [DOCX, 13KB]
- Emergency Surgery Booking Form [DOCX, 11KB]
- Medical Referral Form [DOCX, 10KB]
- Wound Assessment Request Form [DOCX, 12KB]
More information
For more information, please email contact@vmia.vic.gov.au