Policy recommendations on the prevention of violence in long-term care facilities.

Violence in long-term care facilities is not well understood and remains unaddressed by policy makers and administrators. Underlying factors contributing to violence are discussed and preventive strategies are offered as potential solutions to reduce aggressive behavior. Knowledge of the incidence of violence and the conditions and factors contributing to violence can help nurses protect both staff and residents and achieve better resident outcomes. Potential solutions and policy recommendations for the prevention of violence, including improvement of staffing in long-term care facilities, are offered.