Question

When a patient is angry and aggressive but not yet violent, the first method to use in changing the behavior is to?

1) Ignore
2) Redirect
3) Reward
4) Interrupt

Answer 1

The first method to use in changing the behavior of an angry and aggressive patient is to interrupt.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is angry and aggressive but not yet violent, the first method to use in changing the behavior is to interrupt. Interrupting the patient can help distract them from their anger and bring their focus back to the present moment. This can be done by calmly and assertively intervening in a non-confrontational manner.

For example, if a patient is becoming increasingly agitated, the healthcare provider can calmly say, "I understand that you are upset, but I need to ask you to calm down and speak more quietly." By interrupting the aggression, the healthcare provider is setting boundaries and redirecting the patient's behavior.

It is important for healthcare providers to be trained in de-escalation techniques to effectively handle situations where patients are angry or aggressive. These techniques can help prevent the situation from escalating into violence and ensure the safety of both the patient and the healthcare provider.