Is This All There Is?

Abstract

The angry and dissatisfied patient is a reality that every clinician will face eventually. In many cases, this is related to unrealistic treatment goals and expectations. Some patients are perpetually angry, for reasons that are often unclear. Their anger, and manner in which it is expressed, can contribute to the intensity and impact of the pain. Their emotional displays can be somewhat histrionic and disruptive. Some are included tor act out via medication abuse or threats of litigation. Early assessment and the ruling out of a personality disorder should be considered. Boundaries need to be set and appropriate consequences enforced. The clinician must maintain a professional attitude. The difficult patient often finds creating chaos reinforcing.