Aggression and violent behaviour can be attributed primarily to lower levels of serotonin. Apart from it there are other causes like family rearing practices, psychiatric illness or being under the influence of psychoactive substances. The risk factors in the potential for violence identified are past history of violence, client diagnosis and current behaviours. Working closely with aggressive and violent patients places the nurse at risk for being victimised. Rapid and efficient management of aggressive, violent and potentially violent patients is a critical skill. Effective violence management programs (that can be given as in-service education or induction program for nurses new to psychiatric units) can reduce the incidence of violence. Management of aggressive behaviour can be implemented to empower nurse practitioners to take precautions whenever necessary in a quick and efficient manner when dealing with aggressive, violent and potentially violent patients. Not all violence can be prevented, but with instruction, precaution, and training, violence can be successfully and effectively managed.
Keywords: Aggression; Violence; Debriefing; seclusion.