Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is a method of helping first responders and others who have been involved in critical incidents that leave them emotionally and/or physically affected by those incidents. CISM is a process that enables peers to help their peers understand problems that might occur after an event. This process also helps people prepare to continue to perform their services or in some cases return to a normal lifestyle” (ICISF, n.d.). Franciscan Health EAP strives to provide resources when a critical incident has occurred to facilitate healthy processing and recovery from the possible negative impacts resulting from the traumatic event. Critical incidents overwhelm the normal coping resources of employees and can vary in intensity and severity. They can involve one person or many. Interventions may occur on a group or individual basis. All EAP therapists are trained in Critical Incident Stress Management through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF). Research has suggested that crisis intervention following a critical incident can drastically reduce the negative impact on employees.
Takes place no more than 24 hours to 10 days post incident (preferably within 24-72 hours after the critical incident). One hour in duration. Involves 2-12 participants. Engage in a process that helps stabilize and restore connections between the organization and the employees affected, emphasizing attributes of resilience. Follows the EAP RALLI Support System Model. The EAP RALLI Support System integrates key components of the Multi-Systemic Resiliency Approach, Psychological First Aid and Mental Health First Aid.