Look for Early Warning Signs of Violence

A patient, family member, or visitor who may be becoming violent might exhibit physical signs, according to Michael S. D’Angelo, CPP, CHPA, director of security at South Miami (FL) Hospital, who developed a program titled “Healthcare Workplace Safety: Recognizing and Responding to Aggressive Behavior.”

These physical signs include the following:

• red-faced or white-faced;
• sweating;
• pacing, restless, or repetitive movements;
• trembling or shaking;
• clenched jaws or fists;
• exaggerated or violent gestures;
• change in voice;
• loud talking or chanting;
• shallow, rapid breathing;
• scowling, sneering, or using abusive language;
• glaring or avoiding eye contact;
• violating your personal space. (They get too close.)