General News
25 February, 2026
Everyone loves ‘BERT’
A SPECIALIST team helping calm distressed patients – particularly those with dementia and delirium – is expanding across Cairns Hospital.
The Behavioural Emergency Response Team (BERT) supports patients experiencing distress or behaviours of concern, often linked to dementia or delirium.
The specialist team works alongside ward staff and families to reduce escalation and provide calm, compassionate care.
Since launching more than six months ago, BERT has assisted more than 1500 patients, with demand increasing month on month.
Due to the team’s success, they will now be rolled out across Cairns Hospital.
Cairns Hospital BERT co-ordinator Hayley Hickey said the service had quickly demonstrated its value for patients, families and staff.
“When patients become unwell or confused in hospital, their behaviour can change very quickly, which can be distressing for everyone involved,” she said.
“BERT provides an extra layer of specialist support during these moments – helping to calm situations early, support families and give staff practical strategies so patients can be cared for with dignity and compassion.”
Ms Hickey said the decision to expand hospital-wide reflected both the growing demand for the service and the confidence in the team’s expertise.
“The expansion recognises how valuable BERT has become across the hospital. It’s about strengthening the support we provide to patients and staff during challenging situations and ensuring care remains person-centred,” she said.
When the team was activated, hospital sub-acute and rehabilitation and older persons nursing director Jane Jordan said the program had quickly demonstrated its value.
“We have received multiple compliments from staff and security stating how happy they are with the service and how it has assisted with their workloads and ability to care for these patients,” she said.
“When older loved ones become unwell, they can sometimes show distressing or challenging behaviours that are difficult for families and hospital staff to manage.
“Now, a dedicated team of specialist nurses is on hand to provide calm, expert support, ensuring patients receive compassionate care while families and staff feel reassured and supported.”
BERT operates seven days a week from 7am to 9pm and focuses on early engagement, rapport-building and de-escalation to support patients, families and staff.
