Workplace violence

Published

Just wondering what type of policies your facilities have in place related to staff assaults by patients. I don't mean assaults that take place in a psychotic state, but intentional acts of violence that leads to staff injuries. Any information would help. Thanks.

Specializes in Psych & Psych ER.

In NY, the patient CAN be arrested while in a state or private psych treatment facility. the issue comes back to will the DA follow thru with filing charges, & will the judge go forward with the case.

We have had mix responces.

most recently one of the MHTA (tech or aide) was bitten during a violent event, the wound was about 2" x 1.5" on his forearm, (he is diabetic to add to the possible complications!), he missed a day of work to be seen by his own PCP or PMD. the upper admin agreed to have the pt arrested, our own peace officers (NYSCOBA- Council 82) processed the pt, and within an hour and a half, the judge actually yelled at the hospital rep for "waisted time of the court" and he dismissed the charges. The pt returned knowing that he could not be charged again and telling the staff "see you can't make me do anything & i can do what i want!" So for now treatment or attempts to do any interventions are kind of gone.

But in another case about two years ago, a former corrections resident attacked, knocked down and broke the knee of one of the Treatment team leaders. TTL was out for six months, had to have orthopedic surg and rehab, that pt was arrested, and sent back to Dept of Corrections. so i guess it depends on who the DA is, who the judge is and how baddly you are injured!:o:wakeneo:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion