Hospital violence reduction among high-risk patients
D. J. Drummond, L. F. Sparr and G. H. Gordon
Department of Psychology, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Portland, OR 97207.
We describe the success of one general hospital in reducing violent
behavior among a group of repetitively disruptive patients. Following a
pilot phase during which violent incidents at the medical center were
characterized by location, type, and person responsible, a group of
patients at high risk for repeated violence was identified (N = 48). Data
were gathered for 1 year before and after the institution of a program
designed to reduce violence, primarily in ambulatory care areas, among this
group. Outcome assessment included comparison of the number of violent
incidents and the number of visits to the medical center during the 12
months before and after the program was started. The number of incidents
declined by 91.6%, and visits to the medical center for any reason
decreased by 42.2%. The ratio of violent incidents to visits after the
program was begun was less than one sixth the rate before the program.
Components of the program are described, including staff resistance and
management strategies.
