• Diane L King, Ross S Kalucy, Charlotte F De Crespigny, Cynthia M Stuhlmiller, and Lyndall J Thomas.
• Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia. diane.king@fmc.sa.gov.au
• Emerg Med Australas. 2004 Apr 1;16(2):155-60.

ObjectiveTo evaluate a training course for ED staff aiming to improve knowledge and skills in working with mental health and drug/alcohol patients attending EDs.MethodsPre- and postcourse questionnaires assessed attitudes and self-ratings of confidence, knowledge and skills in working with these patients. Follow-up interviews assessed if new skills or approaches to patient management had been integrated into daily ED practice.ResultsLittle change was observed in the course participants' attitudes, although reported attitudes were generally appropriate. Self-ratings of confidence in skills and knowledge showed a significant improvement on all questions following the course. Responses to the follow-up interviews suggest course information has been retained and integrated into practice, especially in conducting triage and other assessments and taking more time to talk to patients.ConclusionThe course has led to staff feeling more confident and competent to help mental health or drug/alcohol patients who attend the ED.

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