What measures should a CNA take to handle a patient exhibiting aggressive behavior?

Remaining calm and removing other patients from the area is the best approach when handling a patient exhibiting aggressive behavior. This strategy helps to ensure the safety of everyone in the vicinity, including staff and other patients. Aggressive behavior can stem from various factors such as confusion, frustration, or underlying health issues, and handling it calmly can de-escalate the situation.

By removing other patients, you create a less chaotic environment, which helps to reduce tension and allows the individual exhibiting aggression to feel less threatened or crowded. This also helps prevent potential injury to others who may be inadvertently caught up in the situation.

Taking this step shows compassion and respect for the patient’s needs while prioritizing safety. Once the immediate situation is managed, it’s important to involve a nurse or a more experienced staff member to assess the situation and determine further actions, but the initial handling must focus on calming the environment.