Occupational violence & aggression

It's OK to step away if it is not safe for me to protect a patient from harm.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

You are not expected to place yourself at risk of injury or harm when delivering care to patients.

Noting prior violence to a patient's record is discriminating against them.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

The fact is: under legislation, western health is required to inform staff of potential risk of violence and an alert is the most effective way to do this.

Violence happens without warning.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Myth : Most times violence can be predicted. Research shows that most times, violence occurs after a period of escalating tension and there is time to evaluate the risk.

Violence is unlikely to happen again if the patient has been settled for days.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Myth: Violent history is one of the best indicators of future violence. Settled patients can give a false sense of security.

More often than not, violence can't be predicted. Patients are unpredictable.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

The fact is: most times violence can be predicted. Research shows that most times, violence occurs after a period of escalating tension and there is time to evaluate the risk.

Delaying a code grey call could place you at greater risk of harm.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Fact is: Risk can be predicted and early management of the situation can reduce the risk of violence towards you and colleagues.

Violent history is one of the best indicators of future violence.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Risk of aggression and violence can fluctuate and certain conditions such as a change of environment, nursing interventions or visitors leaving, can have an impact on a patient's behaviour.

We reserve the right to refuse care to anyone engaging in violence or aggression.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Western Health can and will refuse care and entry to patients and visitors who are intentionally engaging in violent or aggressive behaviour towards you and your colleagues.

I have to stop a confused patient from leaving the ward in case they get hurt.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

The fact is: Attempting to stop a patient from leaving can be a trigger for violence or aggression, putting your safety at risk.

Reported violence and aggression incidents can help prevent future incidents.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Reported incidents inform actions. Worksafe states that up to 95% of our health care workers have experienced verbal or physical assault, but these incidents are chronically under reported.