Training personnel in the prevention and management of violent behavior

The authors describe a training program on prevention and management of violent behavior for the staff of a Veterans Administration hospital. The one-day workshop focuses on preventive identification of potentially violent situations and on methods of verbal and physical management of violent behavior. A study of workshop participants showed that trainees had improved knowledge about and performance in handling violent behavior after completing the program. Future developments in training in prevention and management of violent behavior should include greater availability of educational resource materials and incorporation of the subject in undergraduate and graduate health care training.