Paediatric De-escalation Course

This one-day, simulation-based course is designed for healthcare professionals involved in the care of children and young people who may present with agitation, distress or behaviours of concern in the hospital setting.

The course explores practical approaches to recognising and managing acute behavioural disturbance, with a focus on effective communication, verbal and non-verbal de-escalation strategies, neurodiversity, and the safe and appropriate use of restrictive practices.

Participants will have the opportunity to apply these principles through realistic clinical scenarios involving professional actors, followed by facilitated debriefing and group discussion.

The course is delivered by a multidisciplinary faculty of experienced clinicians and educators, typically including emergency and paediatric medical and nursing staff, allied health professionals, KKIND, and Behaviour Support Clinical Nurse Specialists. This breadth of experience brings a range of clinical perspectives to the management of challenging situations.

The course also considers the impact of these encounters on healthcare staff, including strategies for supporting colleagues and maintaining team wellbeing.