Workplace Violence in Healthcare: "Not Just Part of the Job"

Abstract

Workplace violence in healthcare is a widespread issue that many healthcare providers accept as “just part of the job.” According to Occupational and Safety Health Administration, in 2002 to 2013 incidents of serious workplace violence (those requiring days off for the injured worker to recuperate) were 4 times more likely in healthcare than in any other industry (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). The aim of this study was to examine the experiences, beliefs, and knowledge among North Dakota nurse practitioners by administering a survey about workplace violence in their practice. Using the data obtained by this survey an educational opportunity about workplace violence was developed and offered to nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals. The purpose of this practice improvement project was to improve healthcare professionals’ knowledge and confidence in the recognition, prevention, and response to workplace violence in their healthcare practice. Experiences of workplace violence can have lasting emotional, psychological, and physical effects on the victims. Increasing awareness and education among healthcare providers about workplace violence can help alleviate the negative effects felt by those who have these experiences. Healthcare professionals who feel safe and supported in their work environment can provide safer, higher quality care to their patients. Decreasing workplace violence in healthcare benefits everyone and violence is not something that should be considered “part of the job” (Fredrick, 2014).