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.