Implementation of the Brøset Violence Checklist on an Acute Psychiatric Unit.

Violence on inpatient psychiatric settings has significant consequences for patients and staff. Research is needed to determine if Brøset Violence Checklist (BVC) is an accurate predictor of violence. The study aims were to determine the relationship between BVC scores and incidence of violent behavior within 24 hours, to compare scores among those requiring high-level nursing interventions for violence, and to investigate the impact of scores on length of stay (LOS) and 30 day-readmission rates. Retrospective cohort study. Logistic regression indicates 3.4 times greater risk of violence for every additional point on admission BVC (odds ratio = 3.4, 95% confidence interval = [2.29, 5.08], < .0001). Patients requiring high-level interventions for violence had higher mean BVC scores on both Day 1 and 2 of admission. Pearson correlation was significant for positive association between BVC on admission and LOS ( < .001). Findings did not establish a link between BVC scores and violence with 30-day readmission rates. Efforts toward early identification and management of agitation and disruptive behavior is encouraged. Results showed increased risk of violence with every additional point on BVC on admission; further attention should be paid to these patients on admission when using violence screening tools.