Psychiatric Bulletin (2000) 24: 435. doi: 10.1192/pb.24.11.435-b
© 2000 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Psychiatric Bulletin (2000) 24: 435
© 2000 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Good Medical Practice in the Psychiatric Care of Potentially Violent Patients in the Community
Council Report CR80. £5.00. 24 pp.
This new Council Report updates and replaces CR12, Good Medical
Practice in the Aftercare of Potentially Violent or Vulnerable Patients
Discharged from Inpatient Psychiatric Treatment, published in 1991. The
scope of this new report is somewhat broader than the 1991 document, as it was
considered to be important to recognise that the care necessary for such
patients is not only applicable following discharge from hospital. The report
outlines current statute and common law and incorporates guidance from the
Department of Health, General Medical Council and other pertinent documents
including inquiry reports.
Guidance is given on risk assessment and management, the relevant factors
in the history, mental state examination, physical health, socio-environmental
factors and response to treatment being outlined. Particular times (such as
admission, discharge or transfer of patients) or events that may increase risk
are delineated. The role of the psychiatrist in the process is described.
Areas of particular concern such as patient confidentiality, clinical
governance, training and factors that may adversely affect judgement are also
demonstrated.