| Learning Objective #1: Identify interventions for improving the care of patients with behavioral emergencies | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify priorities for educational programs on behavioral emergencies to enhance the practice of emergency nurses |
Objective: Most nurses have limited experience and comfort providing care for agitated and violent patients. Yet, establishing a patient - nurse alliance is believed to improve long-term outcomes. The purpose of this study was to identify the practices and educational needs of emergency nurses when working with patients with behavioral emergencies.
Design: A descriptive study was conducted.
Sample: Emergency department managers recommended nurses to participate in the study. Eligibility criteria were: Registered Nurse; working full-time; five years ED experience; three years experience with agitated and violent patients; and knowledge of current ED policies and practices. Two hundred nurses were invited to participate, and each will receive $50 upon completion of the survey.
Concept: Management of mental health problems are most successful when using a holistic approach to care. Involvement of the patient, family, and care providers in all aspects of care is important whether involving emergency management or everyday living.
Methods: A 40-question survey, using 5-point Likert scales, was used to identify emergency assessments and interventions; advanced directives and informed choices; facilitators and barriers to a patient-focused approach; safety; pharmacological interventions; restraints and seclusion; patient and family teaching; facilitation of long-term care; and the educational needs of the nurses. The instrument was reviewed by nine nurses with behavioral emergency expertise.
Findings: Data collection will be completed in February 2003.
Conclusions: It is anticipated that a range of practices, policies, and continuing education needs of nurses will be identified.
Implications: The findings will be used to improve the holistic care of patients, develop education programs for emergency nurses, and improve safety and confidence when working with patients with behavioral emergencies.
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