Which of the following describes a safe approach toward a potentially aggressive patient?

• A. Maintain a calm demeanor, keep a safe distance, and use non-threatening body language.
• B. Ignore the patient's behavior and continue with your tasks as usual.
• C. Physically restrain the patient immediately without attempting verbal de-escalation.
• D. Raise your voice to assert authority and quickly approach the patient.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the importance of safety and de-escalation when dealing with a potentially aggressive patient. The goal is to reduce tension and prevent harm to both the patient and healthcare provider.
2. Recognize that maintaining a calm demeanor helps to avoid escalating the situation. Your tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language should all convey calmness and control.
3. Keep a safe distance to ensure you have enough space to react if the patient becomes more aggressive. This distance also helps the patient feel less threatened.
4. Use non-threatening body language, such as open palms, relaxed posture, and avoiding sudden movements, to communicate that you are not a threat and are there to help.
5. Avoid ignoring the behavior, physical restraint without verbal attempts, or raising your voice, as these actions can escalate aggression rather than reduce it.