Table 1 Simulation scenario synopsis

Synopsis:

Danni is a 15-year-old female with a history of mental health difficulties who was admitted to the Adolescent Unit for investigation of abdominal pain and management. Danni was sitting outside the entrance to the ward with another patient, Ned, playing games on their phones. Both patients were asked to return to the ward by a nurse who went looking for them. Ned returned immediately to the ward whilst Danni became distressed at being told what to do and stormed back to her bedroom. Danni locked herself in the bathroom after slamming the door.

Task:

Convince Danni to open the bathroom door and return to her bed. Use empathy and appropriate communication strategies to calm her and prevent further escalation in her behaviour.

Simulation learning objectives:

By the end of this simulation participants should be able to:

• Identify and demonstrate the key communication skills and language required when interacting with a distressed young person.

• Maintain safety of the patient.

• Demonstrate empathy and insight when communicating with the distressed young person.

• Recognise early warning signs of aggression and prevent behavioural escalations

• Recognise when it is appropriate to activate a Code Grey response.