Good Medical Practice in the Psychiatric Care of Potentially Violent Patients in the Community

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.