Testing an intervention to reduce assaults on nursing assistants in nursing homes: a pilot study

Nursing home staffs frequently encounter physical and emotional violence directed toward them by residents. This article addresses the problem from an occupational health perspective and describes a pilot study focused an educational intervention to reduce resident assaults on certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in nursing homes. After a 4-hour education intervention, the study CNAs reported fewer physical assaults by residents and increased levels of knowledge and confidence in their ability to manage residents' aggressive behavior compared with a similar CNA group. Limitations include a small convenience sample who works only the day shift. Results support education and training as effective in reducing resident physical assaults and enhancing nursing home safety. Further research should investigate assaultive resident behavior and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to prevent, reduce, and manage violence in nursing homes.