Here are three steps physicians can take to protect themselves from violent patient encounters based on advice from family physician and reserve deputy sheriff Kenneth Cheng, DO, per a June 12 report from Medscape.
1. Do not turn your back on patients that might try and take advantage of the situation. Back out of the exam room; do not turn your face away from a potentially violent patient.
2. Always read a patient’s body language for signs of tension and agitation, including clenched fists, tense postures, tight jaws or fidgeting.
3. Do not stand too close to a potentially violent patient, as it can seem confrontational. Do not block the door if a patient seems agitated. If a patient informs you they are licensed to carry a firearm, do not ask them to leave it in a separate location.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.