“Implementing a Nurse-Led Trauma-Informed Care Program to Reduce Runaway Incidents Among Adolescent Girls in a Residential Group Home Over a 6-Week Period”

Project Overview

This 6-week capstone project will focus on reducing runaway incidents at Branches of Life by implementing a nurse-led trauma-informed care (TIC) program that addresses the emotional and psychological triggers leading to elopement behaviors in adolescent girls.

Project Objectives & Timeline

Phase 1: Baseline Assessment (Weeks 1-2)

• Retrospective Review

• Analyze past runaway incidents to identify trends and common triggers (e.g., emotional distress, trauma, conflicts).

• Mental Health & Risk Assessment

• Perform individual risk assessments to determine residents most at risk for elopement.

• Staff Input & Gaps Analysis

• Gather staff feedback on challenges in preventing runaway incidents and gaps in current interventions.

Phase 2: Intervention Implementation (Weeks 3-5)

• Trauma-Informed Care Training for Staff

• Conduct weekly nurse-led training on de-escalation techniques, therapeutic communication, and recognizing early signs of emotional distress.

• Resident Coping & Emotional Regulation Sessions

• Implement biweekly group sessions focused on stress management, self-regulation, and conflict resolution skills.

• Establish a “Safe Space” & Crisis Response Plan

• Designate a calm-down area where residents can go when overwhelmed.

• Implement a structured crisis intervention protocol where nurses and counselors provide immediate emotional support before escalation.

Phase 3: Evaluation & Outcome Measurement (Week 6)

• Compare Pre- and Post-Intervention Runaway Incidents

• Assess changes in runaway rates over the 6-week period.

• Staff Competency Evaluation

• Conduct pre- and post-training surveys to measure improvements in staff confidence in managing elopement risks.

• Resident Feedback & Emotional Well-Being Assessment

• Gather resident input through surveys and focus groups to determine the program’s impact on their emotional regulation and sense of safety.

Expected Outcomes

• 25-40% reduction in runaway incidents within 6 weeks.

• Increased staff competence in trauma-informed de-escalation techniques.

• Improved emotional regulation and coping skills among residents.

Significance of the Project

• Addresses a critical safety issue in residential care.

• Aligns with trauma-informed care principles and Branches of Life’s mission to provide individualized emotional support.

• Creates a structured, sustainable intervention that can be incorporated into long-term policies at Branches of Life.

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