Citation

Grenyer BFS, Ilkiw-Lavalle O, Biro P, Middleby-Clements J, Comninos A, Coleman M. Aust. N. Zeal. J. Psychiatry 2004; 38(10): 804-810.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1111/j.1440-1614.2004.01465.x

PMID

15369539

Abstract

Objective: Aggression and violence are recognized as significant occupational risks for health care staff. A new aggression minimization program for all public health service staff at risk in New South Wales, Australia was developed and evaluated. Twenty-two hours of training was divided into specific modules addressing: general aggression and violence minimization competencies (modules 1 and 4, 10 h); the specific needs of staff working in high-risk environments (module 2, 8 h); and a module for workplace managers and supervisors (module 3, 4 h). Method: Two pilot samples were evaluated: (i) 15 experienced aggression trainers from across New South Wales completed and evaluated a two-day 'train the trainer' program; (ii) 48 experienced health staff completed the four training modules and assessed satisfaction, knowledge and skills acquired, attitudes toward managing aggression and confidence in dealing with aggressive incidents. Results: Program materials were judged to be highly suitable. Staff were satisfied and increased their knowledge and skills, and evidenced improved attitudes toward working with aggressive patients. A significant increase in staff confidence for dealing with aggressive incidents was also found, with the more modules staff completed the greater their confidence in dealing with aggressive incidents. Conclusions: The program may contribute to helping health service industry staff attain a safer workplace.