Use of a performance feedback package to modify behaviors of certified nursing assistants in a psychiatric facility

Research has shown the verbal and physical aggression committed against certified nursing assistants (CNAs) by clients in psychiatric settings is a problem in need of attention and that often the behaviors of the CNAs may provoke or exacerbate these attacks. Research also shows that performance feedback improves behavior in many settings. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of a performance feedback treatment package on altering behaviors of 12 CNAs and reducing violent interactions in a psychiatric facility using a multiple baseline across participants design. The intervention provided performance feedback, antecedents, goal setting, and behavioral consequences. Data evaluation included visual inspection and t-tests. As hypothesized, the performance feedback treatment package was found to be an efficacious method of causing clinically significant changes in inappropriate and appropriate behaviors, resulting in more a professional direct-care staff. The package was also associated with a decrease in incidents of violence within the facility