Uptake and useability of a digital solution to assessing behaviours of concern in the emergency department: A multi-methods study.

BACKGROUND

People presenting to emergency departments with behaviours of concern is increasing, placing staff and patients at risk of psychological and physical harm. An electronic Behavioural Assessment Tool (EDBAT) was implemented across four emergency departments to guide nursing assessment and care of these patients. The aim of this study was to determine: 1) Characteristics of patients with an EDBAT completed; 2) the proportion of patients detained involuntarily with an EDBAT completed; and 3) facilitators and barriers to uptake of the EDBAT by emergency nurses.

METHODS

A multi-method study design was used comprising two studies: a retrospective quantitative descriptive study and implementation survey.

RESULTS

There were 743 EDBATs completed over 3-months. Of the 724 patients involuntarily detained, 512 (70.7%) had an EDBAT completed. The survey was completed by 93 (33.2%) nurses. Twelve facilitators and eight barriers were identified. The EDBAT was considered easy to use (n = 73, 78.5%) and 81 nurses (87.1%) intended to continue using it. Inadequate nursing staff (n = 48, 51.6%), lack of time (n = 61, 65.6%) and "nil clinical space appropriate" hindered emergency nurses from using the EDBAT.

CONCLUSIONS

The EDBAT is a useful clinical aid. Adequately trained staff and resources are needed to achieve successful uptake in emergency nursing practice.