Learning and performance outcomes of mental health staff training in de-escalation techniques for the management of violence and aggression

Background: De-escalation techniques are a recommended non-physical intervention for the management of violence and aggression in mental health. Although taught as part of mandatory training for all NHS mental health staff, there remains a lack of clarity around training effectiveness. Aim: To conduct a systematic review of the learning, performance and clinical safety outcomes of deescalation techniques training. Method: The review process involved a systematic literature search of 20 electronic databases, eligibility screening of results, data extraction, quality appraisal, and data synthesis. Results: 38 relevant studies were identified. The strongest impact of training appears to be on deescalation- related knowledge, confidence to manage aggression and de-escalation performance (although limited to artificial training scenarios). No strong conclusions could be drawn about the impact of training on assaults, injuries, containment and organisational outcomes owing to the low quality of evidence and conflicting results. Conclusions: It is assumed that de-escalation techniques training will improve staff’s ability to deescalate violent and aggressive behaviour and improve safety in practice. There is currently limited evidence that this training has these effects.