ABSTRACT
The clinic policy is clear about weapons of any sort. This policy was explained to Dean and he was asked to leave for the safety of the health care team and the other patients. He was invited to return without the blade. Whether he thought this unreasonable or not, he did not say, but he did comply. When he returned the following day, we made it a point to see him as promptly as possible in return for his cooperation. Weapons are clearly a danger and are not to be tolerated by any health care worker either in a clinic setting or in the home. It is a routine part of the initial assessment to question everyone about ownership and possession of weapons. Although selfprotection may mean survival on the streets, the health care setting needs to be neutral and safe.
