What is DESC in TeamSTEPPS and what are its steps?

What is DESC in TeamSTEPPS and what are its steps?

• A. A data collection form for quality metrics
• B. A code of ethics for physicians
• C. A constructive approach for managing and resolving conflict with steps: Describe the situation or behavior, Express concerns, Specify alternatives, Consequences; seek consensus
• D. A discharge planning protocol

Answer: (C)

DESC in TeamSTEPPS is a structured way to manage and resolve conflicts in a constructive, collaborative manner. It provides a clear sequence to turn disagreements into improvements in patient safety. The steps are Describe the situation or behavior in objective terms, Express concerns about how it affects safety or team function, Specify alternatives or actions you’d like to see, and Consequences—often with a request to seek consensus on the plan. This framework helps reduce blame and defensiveness by focusing on observable facts, the impact on care, and concrete next steps, culminating in an agreed course of action. For example, you might describe what happened during a handoff, express concern about a potential safety risk, propose a specific way to handle future exchanges, and outline the potential positive outcomes if that change is made, then work toward agreement. The other options refer to data forms, ethics codes, or discharge protocols, which do not address the conflict-resolution method described by DESC.

DESC in TeamSTEPPS is a structured way to manage and resolve conflicts in a constructive, collaborative manner. It provides a clear sequence to turn disagreements into improvements in patient safety. The steps are Describe the situation or behavior in objective terms, Express concerns about how it affects safety or team function, Specify alternatives or actions you’d like to see, and Consequences—often with a request to seek consensus on the plan. This framework helps reduce blame and defensiveness by focusing on observable facts, the impact on care, and concrete next steps, culminating in an agreed course of action. For example, you might describe what happened during a handoff, express concern about a potential safety risk, propose a specific way to handle future exchanges, and outline the potential positive outcomes if that change is made, then work toward agreement. The other options refer to data forms, ethics codes, or discharge protocols, which do not address the conflict-resolution method described by DESC.