ABSTRACT
A strong violence prevention program implemented throughout the hospital can dramatically reduce the likelihood of a violent event. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publication provides basic safety tips for all employees to help them reduce the potential for violence while working within the healthcare environment. OSHA recommends that all healthcare institutions that contain these departments conduct a risk assessment that includes the evaluation of the physical environment, review and implementation of administrative controls, and staff training in order for staff to recognize potential violence and be able to handle violent situations effectively. There are many types of violence that occur within the healthcare setting. Prevention protocols provide staff with tools that not only help them reduce the opportunity for violence but also make response more effective. Training staff to understand the different types of violence and recognize potential violent situations provides them with tools to help resolve and/or react to violent situations better.
