Shing-Chia Chen1, Hai-Gwo Hwu, Ping-Chuan Hsiung. 1. Department of Nursing, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. shinchia@ntu.edu.tw
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the clinical manifestations of aggressive acts by schizophrenic patients during hospitalization. DESIGN AND METHODS: This prospective study followed 107 schizophrenic patients admitted to an acute psychiatric ward in Taiwan. The Chinese version of the Violence Scale was used to count and rate aggressive acts. The categories of the trend of aggressive acts were analyzed. FINDINGS: The highest incidence rate of aggressive acts (58.9%) occurred during the initial week of hospitalization and decreased through the fourth week (16.9%). Most were disturbing but not severe. The incidence and decrease patterns of aggressive acts were found. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Aggressive acts can be prevented and managed.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the clinical manifestations of aggressive acts by schizophrenicpatients during hospitalization. DESIGN AND METHODS: This prospective study followed 107 schizophrenicpatients admitted to an acute psychiatric ward in Taiwan. The Chinese version of the Violence Scale was used to count and rate aggressive acts. The categories of the trend of aggressive acts were analyzed. FINDINGS: The highest incidence rate of aggressive acts (58.9%) occurred during the initial week of hospitalization and decreased through the fourth week (16.9%). Most were disturbing but not severe. The incidence and decrease patterns of aggressive acts were found. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Aggressive acts can be prevented and managed.