Development and Efficacy Evaluation of a Gentle Communication for Gentle Healthcare Curriculum

Abstract

Workplace violence in healthcare settings impairs staff well-being and care quality.
Although a positive communication guidebook has proven effective in reducing violence, scaling up
remains challenging. This study aimed to (1) develop a positive communication curriculum using
a research and development framework, (2) assess knowledge, attitudes, skills, and satisfaction,
and (3) explore implementation plans and barriers. A one-group pretest-posttest design was
employed with 18 healthcare workers. The 360 - minute, 6 - module curriculum integrated lectures,
role-play, simulation, and workshops. Content validity was strong (IOC = 0.90). Knowledge,
attitudes, and skills improved significantly (28.33, 15.04, and 24.72 percent, respectively;
all p < 0.001) with large to very large effect sizes (d = 1.40 – 1.94). Satisfaction was 4.50/5.00,
and 88.89 percent planned immediate implementation. Findings support scaling up this curriculum
to promote safer healthcare work environments.

Keywords: gentle communication; violence; health service; de-escalation; R&D