The Team Communication Unit Follow-up Education Notebooks were designed using a "Fast Talk" format.  In this format, key concepts are presented on 1-2 pages with a headline sentence conveying the essential implication for practice.  Bulleted statements serve as a guide for a brief (less than 15 minute) review.  The concept review section is used for unit fast talks (staff gather informally on the unit) or unit/department meetings.  The second section of the notebook is an ongoing compilation of discipline/patient population specific practice scenarios for use in “Fast Talks.”  In these practice scenarios, a narrative describes a patient situation followed by prompts in the SBAR format.  Participants may work either as a group or individually to structure the required communication.  A complimentary facilitator guide is available and intended for use in conjunction with the practice scenarios.  It includes examples of potential communications designed to assist staff members in structuring their communication.   

Click here for the major topics that are taught during Fast Talks. 

Unit-based champions are identified by unit leadership and participate in champion meetings.  Champions serve as implementation “experts” providing insight to effective strategies to reinforce learning and foster a culture change.  Many champions embrace the key concepts of teamwork and communication, sharing their strategies with the other units.  Examples of this include advertising educational events using SBAR format and developing a “SBAR Kudos” form to recognize coworker contributions to the unit.  

Two different forms were developed per the request of providers.  “Novice” forms include expanded cues for section content, while “Expert” forms are more streamlined.  These forms are used for practice/learning or to prepare/organize an upcoming communication about an actual patient situation and are readily available near unit telephones.

The visual reminders maintain awareness of the concepts surrounding team communication until practice change can be incorporated into unit/organizational culture.  

One-line headlines, capturing key concepts, were developed into laminated Concept Posters and placed on the units in strategic locations (nurses station, staff bulletin boards, resident work stations).

Phone cards were strategically placed near phones for easy access and usability.

Bookmarks, lanyards, t-shirts, and pocket cards were also used as incentives for participation in education events or to reward observed practice changes.  

The PowerPoint presentation is used in unit meetings or orientation classes to provide a standardized introduction and a brief overview of the concepts associated with Team Work and Structured Communication.  

Interactive modules, currently under development, will provide 24 hour, on-line access to education.