Critical Incident Stress Management at Bronson
We know that caring for others can take an emotional toll. When teams experience a difficult situation, having space to talk and process together can make all the difference. That’s where Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) comes in.
What is CISM?
"CISM is not counseling. It provides tools to help people get through difficult times."
CISM is a confidential, peer-led program that offers immediate support after a stressful event. This may be a traumatic situation, such as the loss of a patient or workplace violence, or something simpler, like ongoing symptoms of burnout.
The CISM team is made up of trained Bronson employees and providers who are available 24/7/365 to help teammates talk through what happened and learn healthy coping tools.
To help explain the program, we interviewed Tennille Chavous, nurse manager on the General Medical Unit at Bronson Methodist Hospital and a CISM volunteer since 2000. Watch the video below to learn more about what CISM is, who can use it and examples of when it can help.
Why Use CISM?
Difficult situations affect everyone differently, and the emotional impact doesn’t always appear right away. For healthcare workers, processing these moments can be especially challenging. Because so much of what we experience is protected by HIPAA, caregivers often feel they can’t talk about what happened, even with the people they’re closest to. That can leave employees feeling isolated or unsure how to cope.
CISM fills that gap. It provides a safe space to work through reactions and understand that what you’re feeling is normal. The program also offers resources you can share with loved ones so they can support you without discussing any protected details.
In this video, Tennille reflects on an early experience in her nursing career and how it inspired her to become a CISM volunteer.
Become a CISM Volunteer!
"One of the best parts about our CISM team is that volunteers come from all across Bronson — both at the bedside and not. I’ve worked with people from IT and other non-clinical areas who bring such unique perspectives."
The strength of the CISM program comes from its volunteers — Bronson employees from all departments and backgrounds who want to support their coworkers during tough moments. Volunteers receive training, work alongside a supportive multidisciplinary team and play a meaningful role in helping employees across the Bronson system.
In this video, Tennille shares what it’s like to serve as a CISM volunteer and why you might consider joining the team.
