3.15.2 - Managing Aggression in Intensive Care

Summary

Key Learning Points

1. 1. All busy hospitals receive violent patients. Staff should be trained in appropriate reduction and response practices. Make the environment as safe as possible, and plan for a ‘worst case scenario’.

2. 2. For patients who understand their behaviours, set limits to expressions of anger. Aggression must not compromise others’ care.

3. 3. Identify specific groups at risk of ‘unpredictable aggression’.

4. 4. Reducing aggression requires: (1) coordinated, multi-level action; (2) treatment of pain, review of medication and safe prescription of sedatives; (3) consistent nursing staff, extra staffing and a multidisciplinary team approach; (4) family involvement; and (5) psychiatric liaison.

5. 5. After violent events, document and report events accurately, and debrief all staff involved.