Date of Conferral

3-13-2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Kelly Fisher

Abstract

Nearly 50% of patients in substance abuse treatment settings exhibit aggressive behaviors, placing staff and other patients at risk. In the absence of structured de-escalation training, clinicians frequently rely on physical restraints or pharmacologic interventions, which contribute to staff burnout, injury, and ethical concerns. The project implemented an evidence-based staff education program to improve nurses’ knowledge, confidence, and competence in managing aggression using nonviolent de-escalation strategies. The project question guiding this initiative was: Can education improve nurses’ de-escalation skills in a substance abuse treatment setting? Using an evidence-based practice (EBP) approach and the PICO framework, the project evaluated the impact of a two-session de-escalation training program. Analytical strategies included pre- and post-assessments of knowledge, confidence scales, and simulation performance scored with a standardized rubric. Findings revealed a 23% increase in knowledge and a 17% increase in confidence among participating nurses following the intervention. These results suggest that targeted de-escalation education can enhance staff competence and support safer, more therapeutic care models. Implications extend beyond the local site, promoting patient dignity, reducing trauma, and aligning with national best practice standards. The project advances goals of promoting respectful, culturally sensitive approaches to managing aggression in vulnerable populations.

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