Violence and aggression in A & E: recommendations for action.

The problem of violence and aggression in health care settings has become a high-profile issue. Following the release of figures issued by the Health Services Advisory Committee (HSAC) which show nursing as the most dangerous profession in the UK, Frank Dobson, Health Secretary, urges health service managers to do everything they can to reduce violence. Violence is defined as any incident which puts a health care worker at risk and includes verbal abuse, threatening behaviour or assault by a patient or member of the public.

A considered response to an emotional crisis. A&E nurses' role in detecting child sexual abuse.

Child sexual abuse inevitably arouses strong feelings and heightened emotions. It is essential, however, that health professionals--especially A&E nurses, who are often the first point of contact--offer objective and compassionate care which aims to manage the trauma.