Work

Workplace Violence in Healthcare Settings: Risk Factors and Protective Strategies

Year: 2010

Type: article

Abstract: This article describes the risk factors and protective strategies associated with workplace violence perpetrated by patients and visitors against healthcare workers. Perpetrator risk factors for patients and visitors in healthcare settings include mental health disorders, drug or alcohol use, inability to deal with situational crises, possession of weapons, and being a victim of violence. Worker risk factors are gender, age, years of experience, hours worked, marital status, and previous workplace violence training. Setting and environmental risk factors for experiencing workplace violence include time of day and presence of security cameras. Protective strategies for combating the negative consequences of workplace violence include carrying a telephone, practicing self-defense, instructing perpetrators to stop being violent, self- and social support, and limiting interactions with potential or known perpetrators of violence. Workplace violence is a serious and growing problem that affects all healthcare professionals. Strategies are needed to prevent workplace violence and manage the negative consequences experienced by healthcare workers following violent events.

Source: Rehabilitation Nursing

DOI: 10.1002/j.2048-7940.2010.tb00045.x

Authors: Gordon Lee Gillespie, Donna M. Gates, Margaret Miller, Patricia Kunz Howard

Institutions: University of Cincinnati, Albert B. Chandler Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Workplace Violence and Bullying

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health