Addressing Mistreatment by Patients in Geriatric Subspecialties: A New Framework

Area of Science:

• Clinical Medicine
• Healthcare Management
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Patient mistreatment is a prevalent issue in clinical settings, particularly within geriatric medicine.
• Existing strategies for managing patient mistreatment lack standardization at both interpersonal and institutional levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe the ERASE framework, a novel and practical approach for addressing patient mistreatment.
• To provide a structured method for healthcare teams and institutions to manage and mitigate mistreatment.

Main Methods:

• The ERASE framework is detailed, outlining five key components: Expecting and preparing for mistreatment, Recognizing mistreatment, Addressing mistreatment in real time, Supporting mistreated healthcare team members, and Establishing a positive institutional culture.
• The framework's applicability and utility are discussed for various healthcare roles and settings.

Main Results:

• The ERASE framework offers a comprehensive, step-by-step methodology for healthcare professionals to confront patient mistreatment.
• Implementation of the ERASE framework can lead to improved safety and dignity in clinical care and learning environments.

Conclusions:

• The ERASE framework provides a vital, standardized approach to combat patient mistreatment in healthcare.
• This framework is particularly relevant for geriatric medicine providers and can be adopted by administrators and educators to cultivate a supportive institutional culture.