“The threshold for aggression may be lower when a patient or accompanying relatives are frightened, in pain or anxious.”—Stephanie Bown, MD
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April 2013Anger Prevention
In 2011, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued a directive for its field staff responding to incidents and complaints of violence against health care workers, including verbal abuse by patients, and recommended ways to prevent workplace violence. Here are some relevant points to help you in your practice:
- Implement a clear, zero-tolerance policy toward workplace violence, including verbal and nonverbal threats and related actions. Ensure that managers, supervisors, coworkers, clients, patients and visitors know about the policy.
- Encourage employees to report incidents of anger quickly, regardless of the situation or catalyst.
- Affirm a commitment to support your staff; place as much importance on employee safety and health as you do on serving the patient.
—AD
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- Gifting Season Can Present Ethical Dilemma for Physicians