Next Steps in TeamSTEPPS®

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this article is to propose a strategy for ensuing simulation training following the implementation of a thorough Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety (TeamSTEPPS®) training initiative. The strategies include observing Teams in the workplace to facilitate the construction of organization-wide, follow-on simulation training. Design/methodology/approach A review of organizational change and instructional design practices is presented to facilitate TeamSTEPPS® to its fullest. This article serves as a continuation of steps to full implementation following an initial article introducing TeamSTEPPS® and a second article identifying the challenges and opportunities for success during preliminary organization-wide training. Findings TeamSTEPPS® is a patient safety tool developed by the U.S. Department of Defense that is based on four competencies. The TeamSTEPPS® competencies and simulation can be used to create a just culture, which is based on effective teamwork and communication. However, full implementation and facilitation of a just culture requires health care organizations to consider reinforcement and next steps in training, along with a new way of thinking about the use of observation and simulation to facilitate organizational change. Research limitations/implications The literature contains large gaps concerning full implementation of TeamSTEPPS®. Very little has been published on how to implement TeamSTEPPS® throughout a health care organization, particularly articles based on good instructional design and organizational change principles. These gaps can lead to piecemeal implementation of TeamSTEPPS® with few positive results for the organization. Originality/value Many organizations have implemented TeamSTEPPS®, but have not conducted follow-on training that uses direct observation, debriefing, and simulation to address or strengthen specific behaviors.