I am not sure if anyone has been in a violent confrontation. I think that this topic is necessary for this section.
The most important item you will ever need to survive a confrontation is......
When I was in the Academy. We were taught that you can not lose your mental awareness and focus. This is to say you have to keep something in your mind that you want to come back too and to live for.
Be it a wife, kids, job, country, mission, etc..... That is why someone is to speak with you at all times while waiting or enroute to a hospital to keep you focused on living.
BUT you should always avoid a fight if possible and always be aware of your surroundings and know where the exits are at all times.