Multidisciplinary Simulation-Based Verbal De-escalation Training Improves Staff Knowledge and Clinical Environment in...

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Healthcare Education
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends de-escalation training for emergency department staff.
• Simulation-based learning enhances staff knowledge and management of agitated patients.
• Agitated patients present unique challenges in emergency department settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the impact of a multidisciplinary education session on staff knowledge and confidence.
• Assess changes in verbal de-escalation and violent restraint use.
• Examine the influence of education on the clinical environment in an urban emergency department.

Main Methods:

• A 90-minute mixed didactic and standardized patient encounter course with debriefing was implemented.
• Participants included nurses, patient support associates, paramedics, and protective services officers.
• Data collected via standardized surveys and environmental change documentation.

Main Results:

• 86% of staff completed the training, with over 90% reporting improved confidence maintained for 6 months.
• A downward trend in violent restraint use was observed post-intervention.
• Hospital policies were updated, including physical environment and communication, based on staff feedback.

Conclusions:

• Multidisciplinary simulation-based education effectively improved staff confidence in managing agitated patients.
• The educational intervention positively influenced the clinical environment within the emergency department.
• This approach enhances patient safety and staff preparedness in emergency settings.