Why are healthcare workers facing increased violence?

Increased aggression in healthcare settings is fueled by pandemic-era pressures, misinformation, public frustration, and a dehumanization of caregivers.

What types of violence do healthcare workers experience?

Healthcare workers are subjected to physical assaults like being hit, kicked, and bitten, as well as verbal abuse, threats, and having bodily fluids thrown at them.

How is workplace violence impacting healthcare professionals?

The epidemic of violence causes lasting psychological harm and physical injuries, leading to fear, anxiety, and a significant number of nurses considering leaving their profession.

Home / Health / Healthcare Assaults Skyrocket: Staff Fear for Safety

Healthcare Assaults Skyrocket: Staff Fear for Safety

7 Feb

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Summary

Healthcare workers face high rates of workplace violence.
Assaults on ED staff increased significantly post-pandemic.
Many nurses consider leaving due to fear and abuse.

Healthcare Assaults Skyrocket: Staff Fear for Safety

Healthcare workers, especially those in emergency departments, are increasingly subjected to patient violence. Incidents range from being hit and kicked to being threatened and having bodily fluids thrown at them. These attacks have led to lasting psychological harm and physical injuries, causing many to fear for their safety on the job. The situation has worsened significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, with a noticeable surge in aggression fueled by misinformation and public frustration.

Statistics reveal that ED staff are nearly four times more likely to be seriously hurt by workplace violence than employees in other industries. Surveys indicate that a vast majority of healthcare professionals believe violence is becoming more common, with many reporting personal assaults in the past year. This ongoing epidemic has resulted in an exodus of nurses and other frontline workers, with a significant percentage contemplating leaving their careers altogether due to constant fear and inadequate administrative responses.