TeamSTEPPS 3.0

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

TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety) is a comprehensive, evidence-based framework designed to improve teamwork and communication in healthcare settings. Developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), TeamSTEPPS has undergone continuous refinement and is currently in its third iteration, known as TeamSTEPPS 3.0.

Core Concepts of TeamSTEPPS 3.0

TeamSTEPPS 3.0 emphasizes the following core concepts:

* Leadership: Effective leaders create a positive and supportive work environment, set clear expectations, and facilitate team communication.

* Communication: Open, timely, and accurate communication is essential for coordinating patient care and resolving conflicts.

* Situation Monitoring: Teams must continuously monitor their work environment and patient status to identify potential risks and intervene promptly.

* Mutual Support: Team members support each other, provide constructive feedback, and intervene when necessary to ensure patient safety.

* Teamwork: Teams work collaboratively, utilizing diverse perspectives and skills to achieve common goals.

Key Elements of TeamSTEPPS 3.0

TeamSTEPPS 3.0 incorporates various elements to enhance teamwork and communication:

* Team Training: Training programs provide team members with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary for effective teamwork.

* Communication Tools: TeamSTEPPS promotes the use of standardized communication tools, such as SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) and closed-loop communication.

* Team Huddles: Regular team huddles facilitate communication, coordination, and problem-solving.

* Team Charters: Written team charters define team goals, roles, and responsibilities, fostering clarity and accountability.

* Team Debriefings: Team debriefings after critical events or challenging situations allow for reflection, learning, and improvement.

Benefits of TeamSTEPPS 3.0

Implementation of TeamSTEPPS 3.0 has been associated with numerous benefits, including:

* Improved patient outcomes, such as reduced mortality and complications

* Enhanced staff satisfaction and reduced burnout

* Increased efficiency and productivity

* Improved communication and teamwork

* Reduced medical errors and adverse events

Conclusion

TeamSTEPPS 3.0 is a valuable framework for healthcare organizations seeking to enhance teamwork, communication, and patient safety. By incorporating its core concepts and key elements, healthcare teams can improve collaboration, identify risks, and deliver optimal patient care. Ongoing training, support, and evaluation are essential for sustaining the benefits of TeamSTEPPS implementation.