What strategies can help prevent workplace violence?

• A. Maintain calm behavior, acknowledge feelings, avoid aggressive actions, and be alert to potential risks.
• B. Identify and punish the aggressor immediately without discussing feelings.
• C. Increase shift length and reduce breaks.
• D. Ignore potential risks and hope for the best.

Answer: (A)

Preventing workplace violence hinges on de-escalation and proactive risk awareness. Maintaining calm behavior helps lower tension and prevents situations from escalating. Acknowledging people’s feelings shows empathy and can diffuse anger, making it safer to continue a conversation or disengage if needed. Avoiding aggressive actions protects everyone involved and preserves options for seeking help or a safe exit. Being alert to potential risks means noticing warning signs early—changes in behavior, threats, or escalating agitation—and taking appropriate steps such as removing yourself from danger, notifying a supervisor, and initiating safety planning. Together, these elements form a practical, proactive approach to keep staff safe. The other options miss essential de-escalation, empathy, or risk recognition, or they would increase stress or ignore danger.