Home care and hospice clinicians provide vital care to patients in their homes. However, these clinicians also face unique safety challenges, including the risk of violence from patients, family members, or others. Let's explore how home care clinicians can identify potential risk factors for violence, how to de-escalate tense situations, and how to recognize the warning signs of a potentially dangerous situation.

Identifying potential risk factors for violence

One of the most effective ways to prevent violence is to identify potential risk factors for violence. Some of the most common risk factors include:

1. History of violence: Patients with a history of violence or aggression may be at a higher risk of acting out again. This is especially true for patients with a history of drug or alcohol abuse.

2. Mental illness: Patients with mental illness, especially those with a history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders, may be at a higher risk of acting...