Background. Graded assertiveness is a technique used in the health industry to improve communication when challenging unsafe practice (Brindley and Reynolds, 2011; Eppich, 2015; Teo et al., 2018). ... Graded assertiveness refers to the gradual increase in confidence when challenging unsafe practice.

Why is graded assertiveness important?

Conclusions: Findings indicate that teaching assertiveness skills and establishing a preparatory framework for 'speaking up for safety' early in a nursing students tertiary education can have important psychosocial implications for their confidence, empowerment and success.

What is graded assertion?

Graded assertiveness is a learned skill. It is a process of communicating, advocating and directing in stressful or crisis scenarios. There are many factors that can block good communication during critical events including: ... One form of graded assertiveness that has been developed, can be remembered with the word PACE.