In the ISBARR communication framework, what is a component?

• A. Handoff
• B. Summary
• C. Evaluation
• D. Readback

Answer: (D)

Readback is a component that ensures mutual understanding by having the person receiving the information restate the plan, orders, and key actions in their own words. In the ISBARR framework, Introduction, Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation lay out the why and what, and Readback closes the loop by confirming that everyone is on the same page and that orders are correctly understood. This step helps catch miscommunications before care is delivered, improving patient safety and accountability. For example, after conveying the recommendation, you prompt the receiver to restate the exact plan and any changes to medications, tests, or follow-up actions, and you confirm that it matches what you intended. The other terms refer to broader stages of handoff or to content rather than the verification step, so they are not the component that ensures this final confirmation.