Evaluation of an inservice education program regarding aggressive behavior on a psychiatric unit

A four-part inservice program on dealing with aggressive behavior on a psychiatric unit was developed, presented, and evaluated. The program was aimed at meeting staff members' cognitive, emotional, and psychomotor needs. Twenty-seven staff members participated. The program was successful in reducing extreme levels of burnout among staff members, and occurrences of patient aggressive behavior resulting in incidents declined after the program. Staff members reported that they felt more confident in dealing with aggression. Protocols and nursing care plans were developed, and ongoing support groups to examine staff members' feelings were established.