Analysis of violent incidents in a regional secure unit

This study examined violent incidents occurring over a four-year period in a Regional Secure Unit. Data were collected from incident reports and case notes. Patients referred from district general psychiatric hospitals because of unmanageable behaviour were over-represented among the small number of patients who were responsible for the majority of incidents. Most patients exhibited little or no aggression. Seclusion was found unnecessary in the management of such patients. Suggestions for further research in this area are made.