A new program to reduce conflict between staff and patients is being trialled across ACT public hospitals.
Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith said the trial of the Safewards model was to be implemented in four wards in Canberra Hospital and Calvary Public Hospital.
“The program has been successful in other Australian States and Territories at reducing ward events involving conflict, with the most improvements seen in adult and youth mental health wards,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“It has also had an impact on staff and consumers feeling safer and more positive in inpatient environments,” she said.
“Any conflict that happens on a ward can cause distress to those involved in an already stressful environment.”
Ms Stephen-Smith said the Safewards program gave staff the tools to de-escalate conflict and build positive relationships with each other and their patients.
“Some examples include setting clear mutual expectations with patients, visual signage in the ward about sensitive and respectful communication, a display of positive notes written by patients and their carers before discharge, and creating a box of items that patients can use to feel calmer and more relaxed,” the Minister said.
“Safewards aims to support staff and clients to work together to make facilities and wards more peaceful and friendly, and therefore safer for everyone,” she said.
Ms Stephen-Smith said the trial would be held at Canberra Hospital’s General Medical Ward 7B and Adult Acute Mental Health Unit as well as at Calvary Public Hospital’s General Medical Ward 4B and Older Person Mental Health Inpatient Ward.
