75. Hot Debriefing | Processing events while you're still in the arena
Apr 3, 2022
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Emergency physician Stuart Rose and rescue specialist Ashley Liebig discuss the importance of immediate debriefs in healthcare, exploring different approaches such as INFO and hot offload. They emphasize the significance of processing events and emotions in a safe environment, highlighting the role of charge nurses and the inclusivity of debriefing sessions. The podcast also discusses the significance of the info process, proper training, and the importance of addressing emotions before facts.
The hot offload method allows team members to quickly share their perspectives, facts, and emotions related to a challenging event, providing support and diffusing immediate emotions.
Debriefing sessions led by charge nurses using the INFO model create a safe and structured environment for team assessment, promoting continuous improvement and enhancing communication among team members.
Deep dives
Importance of Debriefing and Immediate Processing
Debriefing and immediate processing after a hard case or challenging event is crucial to prevent burnout and improve performance. The hot offload method allows team members to quickly share their perspectives, facts, and emotions related to the event. It helps in diffusing the immediate emotions and providing support to each other. The focus is on disseminating the facts and experiences rather than personal assessment. This process allows team members to gain insights, correct misconceptions, and offer support to one another.
The Role of the Charge Nurse in Facilitating Debriefing
The charge nurse plays a critical role in facilitating debriefing sessions. This approach addresses time constraints and ensures that debriefing occurs consistently. The charge nurse, being experienced and familiar with the department's logistics, can effectively lead the debrief and create a safe environment. By delegating the responsibility of cognitive offloading, the charge nurse frees up the team leader to handle other tasks. Regularly scheduled debriefings led by charge nurses promote a culture of continuous improvement and enhance communication among the team members.
Structure of Debriefing Sessions
Debriefing sessions follow a structured approach using the INFO model. INFO stands for immediate, not for personal assessment, fast, and opportunity for questions. An immediate debriefing shortly after the event captures the fresh memories and allows participants to share their experiences, facts, and perceptions. The debriefing session is focused on systems and team assessment rather than individual criticism. The charge nurse guides the session, ensuring a respectful and supportive environment. The session concludes with the opportunity for questions and reminding participants of available counseling resources.
The Power of Kindness and Respect in Debriefing
In debriefing sessions, fostering kindness, respect, and empathy is essential. Creating a psychologically safe space encourages open and honest communication among team members. Acknowledging the efforts and challenges faced by individuals can mitigate blame and guilt. By being supportive and understanding, team members can build stronger relationships, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. Practicing kindness and respect every day enhances the overall workplace environment and contributes to improved team performance.
Finding time to debrief challenging cases can feel nearly impossible amidst the tumult and task saturation of medical practice. The reality, however, is that it’s a necessity, not a nicety. In this episode, emergency physician Stuart Rose and rescue specialist Ashley Liebig discuss two different approaches to immediate debriefs: INFO and the hot offload.
Ashley Liebig is a HEMS Flight Nurse and Helicopter Rescue Specialist with Austin Travis County STAR Flight. Prior to her flight and rescue career, Ashley served in the US Army as a combat medic with the 101st Airborne Division. She is known around the world as a teacher of managing the stress response
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