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Violence in clinical forensic medicine
V Schnieden1, M Stark, J Payne-James
1Department of Psychological Medicine, University College Hospital, London.
Medicine, Science, and the Law
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Physical and verbal violence are prevalent among doctors in clinical forensic medicine. Most doctors believe training on managing violence should be integrated into their professional development.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Medicine
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Clinical forensic medicine doctors face unique workplace risks.
- Violence against healthcare professionals is a growing concern globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the incidence of physical and verbal violence experienced by clinical forensic medicine doctors.
- To assess the current training levels for managing violent encounters in this field.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous questionnaire survey was distributed to all full members of the Association of Police Surgeons.
- Data on experienced violence, types, warning signs, and training received were collected.
Main Results:
- 18.2% of respondents reported physical violence (150 incidents), with warning signs present in only 25%.
- 65.5% reported verbal violence, most commonly obscenity.
- Significant working days were lost due to injuries, including a fractured wrist and corneal scarring.
Conclusions:
- Both physical and verbal violence are common occurrences in clinical forensic medicine practice.
- There is a strong consensus (88%) among practitioners for mandatory training in violence management.
- Introduction of comprehensive training programs is recommended to address these workplace safety issues.