Calming aggressive reactions--a preventive program.

1. Aggressive behavior of nursing home residents towards caregivers, specifically nurse aides, is increasingly a problem in nursing homes. 2. The C.A.R.E. Program was developed to educate nursing personnel about prevention of aggressive incidents through early identification of residents most likely to become abusive. 3. The C.A.R.E. Program utilizes didactic presentation, role playing, sharing experiences, and group support as teaching strategies. 4. A major implication for professional nurses is to assume responsibility for identifying elders at risk for aggression and to provide the nursing team with the training to best care for these residents.