Managing the Violent Patient : A Clinician's Guide

This important book equips mental health professionals with sound and practical strategies for responding effectively to disruptive or violent patients. The authors identify the warning signals of potential violence and offer detailed guidelines on assessment; verbal, pharmacological, and physical intervention; use of seclusion and restraints; and management of hostage situations. Of particular value is the emphasis on ways of preventing a potentially dangerous person from erupting into physical violence. Full consideration is also given to institutional responses to violent incidents.