Incidents of aggression and violence have been occurring in healthcare for many years. But the number and severity of incidents is on the rise. Which is why the Joint Commission issued a Sentinel Event Alert in June 2010 with suggested actions for preventing violence in healthcare. One of those actions concerns training:
"Require appropriate staff members to undergo training in responding to patients' family members who are agitated and potentially violent, Include education on procedures for notifying supervisors and security staff."
HSS recognized the need for this type of training program years ago…one designed exclusively for healthcare, including medical staff, professional support staff, and volunteers who may encounter angry, disruptive, or potentially dangerous individuals. In 1997, we launched Techniques for Effective Aggression Management, or TEAM®. Since its introduction, TEAM has become the choice of healthcare providers around the country. More than 15,000 students graduated in 2008 and 2009 and there are currently 400 certified TEAM trainers.
One satisfied customer told us, "Our customer complaints have gone down since the lobby staff took the TEAM lessons. The staff are more willing to approach persons and proactively deal with the public."
Practical Components Fit Into Busy Schedules
TEAM consists of two information-packed, two-hour modules that minimize work disruption and maximize learning.
| Blue Module | Prepares your staff members to recognize potentially violent situations and prevent them from escalating. |
| Gold Module | Teaches your staff members how to protect themselves in case of physical attack. |
To reduce ongoing TEAM trainer fees, you can take advantage of the TEAM Trainer Program, which qualifies your designated employees to teach the TEAM modules. These trainers also can be qualified to lead the HSS Safe Patient Control™ program.
Certification Maintains Skills
Your staff members receive a Certificate of Completion after completing each module. To ensure that their skills remain up-to-date, certificates must be renewed every 12 months by completing a competency exam and any necessary remedial instruction. HSS will track renewal dates for you and notify your trainers when staff need to renew their certificates.
Your TEAM Trainers, too, are certified, with a Certificate of Qualification that must be renewed every 24 months by completing a competency exam and any required remedial coursework.
Let TEAM help you and your staff confidently and capably cope with workplace violence. Contact HSS at TEAM@hss-us.com or 303-603-3105.