Be Attuned to Patient Behavior
Be Attuned to Patient Behavior
Patients may provide non-verbal or behavioral cues of potentially violent behavior. Staying aware of these non-verbal cues may increase safety.
Non-Verbal/Behavior cues include:
- Physical appearance (clothing and hygiene neglected)
- Arms held tight across chest
- Clenched fists
- Heavy breathing
- Pacing or agitation
- A terrified look signifying fear and high anxiety
- A fixed stare
- Aggressive or threatening posture
- Thrown objects
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Indications of drunkenness or substance abuse
Workplace Violence Prevention Program
- Reporting Workplace Violence
- Training & Preventing Workplace Violence
- Resources & Support
- About Workplace Violence & Tools
Contact the Workplace Violence Prevention Unit: