A string of recent assaults perpetrated on nurses by clients has prompted the hospital administrators to address this disturbing trend. What action should the administrators prioritize in an effort to reduce the incidence of workplace violence?

Question

A) Ensure that at least one male nurse is present at all times on each nursing unit.
B) Teach self-defense techniques to all the nurses who provide care in high-risk settings.
C) Train nurses how to effectively manage the behavior of aggressive patients and clients.
D) Withhold care from patients and clients who have a history of aggression.

Answer 1

Ans: C
One form of violence prevention is to train employees in the management of hostile
and violent behavior. Ways of identifying hostile and assaultive clients should be developed so
that staff can be warned to take extra personal safety precautions. This is different from
teaching self-defense techniques, which are normally physical in nature. It is not normally
possible to withhold care from an individual, even if the person has a history of violence or
aggression. The presence of male nurses is not an adequate measure in the prevention of
violence.