EVALUATION OF PRE-LIMITATION SYMPTOMS OF AGGRESSION OF PATIENTS TREATED IN A PSYCHIATRY CLINIC USING MULTI-CRITERIA DECISION-MAKING METHODS

Abstract

Unlike general clinics, aggression is a frequently encountered condition in psychiatry clinics. Interventions made in cases where aggression cannot be managed threaten patient-worker safety and disrupt the therapeutic environment; reduces the motivation of employees and the quality of care they provide. In this study, it is aimed to evaluate the pre-restriction aggression symptoms of patients receiving treatment by health professionals (psychiatrists, nurses) who decided to restrict by using multi-criteria decision making techniques. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 40 nurses and psychiatrists working in a state hospital in Istanbul, between May and July 2021. The data were collected using a digital questionnaire consisting of two parts, the Socio-demographic Data Form and the Aggression Symptoms Evaluation Form. In the analysis of the data, the weights of the criteria were calculated by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process Technique. Among all the criteria, self-harming and harming the environment were determined as the most important criteria. Fall hazard, confusion/delirium, and excessive agitation are of equal importance and are ranked third in the weights of the criteria. However, there is no significant difference in the priority order of the criteria in terms of occupations. The results of this study show which of the aggression behaviors exhibited before PCM (Professional Containment Methods) is more important; It is important in terms of revealing which criteria can actually be considered as signs of aggression. Thanks to the data obtained as a result of the study, it is thought that unnecessary PCM use will be prevented. The results of the study can be used in planning the trainings for PCM given in in-service training programs for candidates who are just starting their profession.