Healthcare
Workplace violence is an unfortunate reality that medical professionals face. From verbal threats to physical assault, healthcare workers are susceptible to a range of violence. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, injuries from violent attacks within the healthcare industry increased 63% between 2011 and 2018. This trend has further escalated since 2020 with the COVID-19 pandemic. At this point, the number of nonfatal workplace injuries suffered by healthcare workers has surpassed all other professions, including law enforcement.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), healthcare workers are four times more likely to experience workplace violence than workers in other fields.
A 2022 study conducted by the American College of Emergency Physicians found 24% of emergency physicians reported being assaulted multiple times a week.
A 2023 survey published by Premier revealed 40% of responding healthcare workers have been directly involved in a workplace violence incident within the past two years.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the incidence of violence against healthcare workers ranges from 8% to 38%, with verbal abuse being the most common form. However, physical assaults and threats also pose serious risks.
Active Shooter Incidents In the Healthcare Field – FBI
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Consequences of Workplace Violence
The consequences of workplace violence in healthcare settings can be devastating. It not only compromises the well-being of medical professionals but also undermines patient safety and care quality. It can lead to decreased morale, increased absenteeism, and reduced productivity. It can also cause physical and psychological harm to employees, resulting in costly medical bills and expensive
litigation, ultimately negatively impacting an organization’s bottom line.
Hoping it Will Not Happen, Is Not a Strategy
Investing in prevention programs can help to reduce the frequency and severity of workplace violence incidents, while also providing a safer environment for employees. Workplace violence prevention training equips medical professionals with essential skills, such as conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and self-defense strategies. It also emphasizes the importance of early intervention and reporting incidents, fostering a culture of safety and accountability.
Nikki understands the significance of workplace violence prevention training in the medical field not just because it’s her job but because she spent 8 years working in hospitals and private practices. She understands the importance of offering tailored training programs designed specifically for healthcare professionals which address the unique challenges they face; training which can accommodate time and budget constraints.
Contact us today to learn more about how our training can help create a safer and more secure environment for both your staff and patients.
