Overview

The TeamSTEPPS® Pocket Guide is a quick-reference application designed and developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), which is the Nation's lead Federal agency for research to improve the safety and quality of health care.

Team Strategies & Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety, known as TeamSTEPPS, is a teamwork system developed by AHRQ and the Department of Defense to improve collaboration and communication in health care settings. Patient safety experts agree that communication and other teamwork skills are essential to the delivery of high-quality health care and to the prevention of medical errors, patient injury, and harm.

For more information about TeamSTEPPS, please visit us on the Web at https://www.ahrq.gov/teamstepps/index.html.

Mobile Application:

• Compatible version available for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, and all other major mobile platforms *

• Full mobility without the need for wireless or Internet connectivity **

• Optional subscription for email notification of available updates

* View the supported device list to check for compatibility with your specific device

** Application downloads and data updates require Internet connectivity

Introduction

TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety) is a widely recognized evidence-based framework developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to improve team communication and collaboration in healthcare settings. The latest version, TeamSTEPPS 3.0, was released in 2019 and incorporates advancements in healthcare technology and best practices.

Key Principles

TeamSTEPPS 3.0 is founded on four core principles:

* Communication: Establishing effective communication strategies to ensure clear and timely information exchange among team members.

* Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where individuals work together effectively to achieve shared goals.

* Leadership: Providing clear direction, setting expectations, and empowering team members to make informed decisions.

* Situation Monitoring: Continuously assessing the situation and making adjustments as needed to maintain patient safety and quality of care.

Core Competencies

TeamSTEPPS 3.0 identifies five core competencies that healthcare teams should develop:

* Communication: Active listening, speaking up, and using effective communication tools.

* Teamwork: Establishing clear roles and responsibilities, coordinating actions, and supporting each other.

* Leadership: Providing guidance, decision-making, and motivation to the team.

* Situation Monitoring: Assessing the situation, anticipating potential problems, and making necessary adjustments.

* Mutual Support: Providing assistance, encouragement, and backup to other team members.

Implementation

Implementing TeamSTEPPS 3.0 involves a multi-faceted approach:

* Training: Team members receive structured training to develop the core competencies and understand the TeamSTEPPS framework.

* Coaching and Mentoring: Experienced team members provide guidance and support to new team members or those needing additional development.

* Simulation: Realistic scenarios are used to practice and evaluate team performance in a safe environment.

* Assessment: Regular assessments are conducted to monitor progress, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments.

Benefits

Implementing TeamSTEPPS 3.0 has been shown to yield numerous benefits for healthcare teams, including:

* Improved communication and collaboration

* Enhanced situational awareness and decision-making

* Reduced medical errors and adverse events

* Increased patient satisfaction and safety

* Improved staff morale and retention

Conclusion

TeamSTEPPS 3.0 is a comprehensive and evidence-based framework that empowers healthcare teams to improve their communication, teamwork, and patient safety. By embracing its principles and core competencies, teams can foster a collaborative environment, enhance their effectiveness, and ultimately provide exceptional patient care.