A Model Program to Manage Behavioral Emergencies and Support Nurses in the Medical Setting

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Clinical Psychology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Hospitalized patients frequently have co-occurring psychiatric, substance abuse, and behavioral disorders.
• Unrecognized or inadequately addressed mental health needs can lead to disruptive and aggressive patient behaviors.
• Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, face high rates of workplace violence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a Behavioral Emergency Support Team (BEST) model in managing disruptive patient behaviors.
• To identify clinical and environmental contributors to patient aggression.
• To provide behavioral education and support to nursing staff.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a BEST model in inpatient medical settings.
• Tracking of patient events requiring BEST intervention over a 2-year period.
• Analysis of event triggers, patient diagnoses, and staff support needs.

Main Results:

• 124 events involving 96 patients were managed over 2 years, with 19 patients experiencing repeat events.
• Aggression (79%) and elopement threat/attempt (45%) were the most common reasons for BEST activation.
• Cognitive impairment was the most frequent patient diagnosis (54%).

Conclusions:

• The BEST model offers crucial support to nurses managing disruptive events in medical settings.
• This model helps minimize workplace violence by providing a structured response to patient agitation.
• Implementing a BEST model can improve patient care and staff safety.