Prevention and Management of Violence: Guidance for Mental Healthcare Professionals

This book presents evidence-based guidance on the prevention and management of aggression and violence by patients with mental disorder. It provides a comprehensive overview of best practice and will be of practical use to a wide range of mental health professionals working in community, in-patient or prison settings. Such sensitive issues as violence in patients from minority ethnic backgrounds, ways to apply physical and pharmaceutical methods of restraint safely, and preserving patients’ dignity in highly volatile situations, are addressed. The guidance also covers: relevant legislation; assessment and management of risk of violence in different settings; specific populations, including older adults and people with intellectual disabilities; both non-pharmacological management techniques and use of medication; and liaison with the police, Crown prosecution service and MAPPA (Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements). Health service managers, as well as clinicians dealing with potentially violent incidents day to day, will find the report informative and the guidelines contained within clear and easy to follow.