Management of abusive behaviour in a hemodialysis unit

Occasionally in hemodialysis units there are situations where registered nurses are unable to assist an individual whose behaviour is abusive or escalating in that direction, and the person cannot re-establish self-control and appropriate behaviour. Such abusive behaviour may arouse concern for the physical and psychological safety or security of the nurse and that of other patients and visitors. Interdisciplinary conferences were held to develop a policy document and guidelines to aid caregivers should abusive situations occur. These were the result of collaboration between physicians, nurses, social workers, a dietician and the clinical nurse specialist from psychiatry. The policy statement and guidelines include nursing actions, physician interventions and recommendations for follow-up conferences.