Taking the trauma out of security.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Workplace Collaboration

Background:

• Disagreements arose between security and psychiatric nursing staff at Baystate Medical Center's Adult Psychiatric Training Unit (APTU).
• A recent shift in patient behavioral modification practices led security to perceive a waste of resources.
• This created interdepartmental tension and hindered effective unit functioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To resolve misunderstandings between security and psychiatric nursing staff.
• To de-escalate tensions within the Adult Psychiatric Training Unit (APTU).
• To foster improved cooperation and collaboration between the two departments.

Main Methods:

• A staff training program was developed and implemented.
• A shadowing program was introduced for cross-departmental understanding.
• The program focused on shared understanding of patient behavioral modification.

Main Results:

• The training and shadowing initiative successfully bridged the gap between staff groups.
• Tensions between nursing and security staff were reduced.
• Cooperation and mutual understanding within the APTU were significantly enhanced.

Conclusions:

• Interdepartmental training and shadowing programs are effective in resolving workplace conflicts in psychiatric settings.
• Addressing resource perception issues through collaborative programs can improve staff relations.
• Fostering cooperation between nursing and security is crucial for optimal patient care environments.