Exchange information clearly and in a timely manner

Most workplaces will have a standardised protocol for handing over information so that nothing is left out by chance. It is important to find out what handover forms and verbal information are required in your workplace.

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) recommend that health facilities use the ISOBAR tool for the clinical handover of information.

The following information details the meaning of ISOBAR and adapts how to use this process to exchange information in a clear and timely manner. The version provided below is an adaptation only. If you are required to use ISOBAR in a clinical setting please refer to the original format noted on the ACSQHC website. Your workplace may not use ISOBAR at all; however, the principles can be applied to all kinds of information exchange.