Governing for Results 2 - Washington State Digital Archives

Department of Social and Health ServicesTraining techniques reduce time-lossEastern State Hospital's assault-reduction training program techniques were nottotally effective. Nothing was taught on what to do once a staff was knocked ordragged to the floor. And, 50 percent of the staff's injuries were patient assaultrelated.A project team reviewed the strengths and weaknesses of the training program.The physical intervention portion of the training was revised from a passiveresponse to a proactive physical intervention.Results★ The number of Labor and Industries claims that involved time lost from workwas reduced from 23 in 1996 to 13 in 1997, redirecting $26,720 into patientcare.★ Total lost days was reduced from 362 in 1996 to 195 in 1997.★ Assault related injuries decreased from 104 in 1996 to 94 in 1997.★ Increased staff satisfaction with the new format and content of training.Team members: John Schalk, Chris Boyles, Howard Peake, Esther Staeheli,Leo Spilker, Doug Stewart, Bob Davis, Todd Vercoe, Lisa Braas, Trom Froese,Bob Millican, Joe Gondek, Bill Beck, Timm Fredrickson, Chuck Day, EvaDacanay, Gail Lascik, Tom Peters, and Cheryl Adams.CONTACT: Bill Wegeleben (360) 902-0865 or Connie J. Wilmot (509) 299-449851