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The prevalence of angry patients in hospital waiting rooms can vary depending on several factors, but it's definitely not uncommon. Studies suggest that anywhere between 5% and 15% of patients exhibit some degree of anger or frustration while waiting to be seen.

Here are some reasons why patients might get angry in waiting rooms:

Pain and discomfort: Being sick or injured can be understandably frustrating, and the wait for treatment can exacerbate these feelings.
Long wait times: Excessively long wait times are a major source of patient dissatisfaction and can lead to anger and impatience.
Lack of communication: Feeling uninformed about what's going on or why they're waiting can make patients feel helpless and frustrated.
Perceived unfairness: Patients might feel like others are being seen before them for no apparent reason, leading to anger and resentment.
Underlying stress and anxiety: Health issues can be stressful, and patients may already be feeling anxious and on edge, making them more prone to anger.

It's important to remember that anger in these situations is often a symptom of something else, and healthcare staff should approach angry patients with empathy and understanding. De-escalation techniques, such as active listening, validation of feelings, and clear communication, can be helpful in calming down angry patients and ensuring a more positive experience for everyone involved.

Angry patient due to waiting - full simulation

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