Abstract
Increasing assaults and behavioral disturbances from patients led to creation of a workgroup with representatives from Nursing, Psychiatry, Psychology, and Administration to find patient-centered ways of decreasing assault rates. The Behavior Rapid Response Team (BRRT) was created to provide early intervention and behavioral consultation for patients showing escalating anger and potential for aggression before behavior requires an emergency response. BRRT is available 24/7 and is staffed by Nursing and Psychiatry. This program was rolled out in VA Mental Health and Community Living Center units and refined prior to rollout in Acute Medical units. BRRT events and outcomes are documented and tracked. Assaults have decreased dramatically in CLC units - 63 assaults in 2013 down to 13 assaults in 2015 - and Nursing has reported increased confidence in their ability to manage behaviorally difficult patients. The BRRT consultation process and outcomes will be discussed.