Conducting a risk assessment in neuroscience practice: principles and procedure

The aim of this article is to raise awareness among health-care practitioners of the benefits and effectiveness of using a structured risk assessment process. Making informed decisions in neuroscience practice requires practitioners to have an understanding of the risk assessment process. This article will outline The principles of risk assessment will be outlined using a five-step approach. The concept of a risk matrix is discussed. The risk assessment process is illustrated using a practical example of a patient with brain injury who demonstrates behaviour that challenges in the neuroscience setting. Embedding risk assessment into the organizational culture supports staff to ensure that risks are managed effectively for the benefit of patients, staff and the health-care organization.