* EC: From De-escalation to Self-Defense: What to do when a patient or visitor turns violent (PDF/QV) [REF: EM, LDR, PI, RN, SFT] EC News, April 2015, Vol 18, #4, Pg 7 JCe1504_B5

This article is essentially a continuation of the January 2015 article: Code Black and Blue (Environment of Care News, January 2015, Volume 18, Issue 1/RTN1501_B07). This installment attempts to provide more suggestions for what to do.  For example, a sidebar on page 9 describes behaviors that help diffuse anger to include:
–– Present a calm, caring attitude
–– Don’t match the threats or give orders
–– Acknowledge the person’s feelings (for instance, “I know you are frustrated”)
–– Avoid any behavior that may be interpreted as aggressive (for example,     getting too close,moving rapidly, speaking loudly, or touching)
There are also suggestions for the development of designated codes (e.g., Code Orange) and special teams for rapid response to aggression.  Perhaps, most importantly, there is the recommendation for training in violence prevention and responding at a level that goes beyond/deeper than the routine training typically provided as part of Restraint/Seclusion management.
Tip: When selecting your next formal hazard vulnerability analysis (HVA) as required by TJC (EM.01.01.01), consider focusing it on an analysis of your organization’s vulnerability to/risk of violence.
Comment: What training is provided by your hospital for the management of violent/dangerous behavior?
See Also: Comments section for additional references (RN).