STAMP
Also written as: STAMP — Staring, Tone and volume of voice, Anxiety, Mumbling, and Pacing
Acronym for Staring, Tone and volume of voice, Anxiety, Mumbling, and Pacing - a rapid assessment tool for identifying agitation.
Full Definition
STAMP (Staring, Tone and volume of voice, Anxiety, Mumbling, and Pacing) is a behavioral observation assessment tool used in emergency psychiatry to quickly identify early signs of patient agitation. Healthcare providers use this mnemonic to systematically observe patient behavior and implement de-escalation strategies before agitation escalates to violence. The tool helps emergency department staff make rapid decisions about patient safety measures and intervention timing.
Usage
Usage note: Always write as all capitals when referencing the assessment tool.
In Context
- "The nurse completed a STAMP assessment and noted increasing anxiety and pacing, prompting immediate physician notification." — Emergency department nursing documentation