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How to Handle an Angry Patient

People that are usually very calm may reach their limit when illness impedes on their health, mobility and independence.   Fear and pain can increase stress, anxiety, and frustration; the result can be a very angry person, very upset at whoever is near them, including you as their nurse.   Don't take the anger from the patient personally; they may be angry at the world in that given moment.   The goal is to defuse the situation before the patient gets angry.   Look for the signs There are signs that can indicate a patient's emotional state is deteriorating. Look for changes in body language, including a tightened jaw, tense posture, clenched fists, fidgeting, and any other significant change from earlier behavior. A talkative person, for example, may suddenly become quiet.   Observe the patient for additional signs that his temper is rising. Is his voice raised? Is he demanding excessive attention? If you detect any of these warning signs, you'll need to act fa