Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

NG10/4

Question

Content and nature of effective de-escalation:- What is the content and nature of effective de-escalatory actions, interactions and activities used by mental health nurses, including the most effective and efficient means of training nurses to use
them in a timely and appropriate way?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Why this is important:- Although it is regularly recommended, there has been little research on the nature and efficacy of verbal and non-verbal de-escalation for adults with mental health problems who become agitated. Research is needed to systematically describe current techniques for de-escalation and develop and test these techniques with adults who have cognitive impairment or psychosis. In addition, research should be carried out to develop methods of training staff and test the outcomes of these methods.
There is a similar lack of research on the nature and efficacy of verbal and non-verbal de-escalation of seriously agitated children and young people with mental health problems. These techniques need to take account of and be adapted to the specific background, developmental/cognitive and psychiatric characteristics of this age group. Additional research should therefore be commissioned on the lines recommended for adults. The research should systematically describe expert practice in adults, develop and test those techniques in aroused children and young people with mental health problems, and develop and test different methods of training staff working with children and young people with mental health problems.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Violence and aggression: short-term management in mental health, health and community settings

Number

NG10

Date issued

May 2015

Other details