Mental health crises in the emergency department: simulation training for interprofessional collaboration and teamwork attitudes

Abstract

Introduction Emergency departments can often be the first place to which people present when in mental health emergencies, although these departments and staff are not always adequately supported to meet the needs of these patients. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of simulation-based training for mental health crisis in the emergency department on knowledge, confidence and attitudes towards interprofessional collaboration. Methods Healthcare professionals (n = 85) from a range of professions participated in a multicentred simulation-based training activity. Questionnaires evaluating participant knowledge, confidence and interprofessional attitudes were administered pre- and post-activity, and analyses were conducted. Thematic analysis was conducted on free-form participation simulation training evaluation forms. Results Participants reported that the simulation training improved their communication skills, clinical practice, encouraged reflective practice and promoted interprofessional collaboration between emergency department and mental health professionals. Significant improvements were seen in participant knowledge and confidence in providing care to individuals presenting to emergency departments in mental health crises. Attitudes towards interprofessional collaboration in a variety of domains improved because of taking the simulation training. Discussion The pedagogical qualities of the in-situ simulation-based training presented fostered interprofessional collaboration and allowed participants to achieve challenging outcomes. It is suggested that further research should investigate the impact of simulation-based training on mental health related patient care outcomes in the emergency department.