Telling the disgruntled from the dangerous: Understand when patients are a threat (May 2010 issue)

Medical facilities, by nature, attract a wide variety of people, many of whom might be scared, anxious, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or mentally unstable. Many of these facilities have no metal detectors and no police officers—you can walk right in and have a seat.

Unfortunately, if you’re a healthcare provider, this high-risk atmosphere is where you work day in and day out. Staff members at many medical facilities, from physician offices to large hospitals, become used to dealing with people who may be rude, agitated, or acting strangely. It can become just another part of the job, just another day.

Unfortunately, in the case of Dennis Sandlin, MD, it wasn't just another day.