Workplace violence in nursing encompasses a range of harmful behaviors, including physical assaults, verbal abuse, bullying, and other forms of aggression directed toward nurses in their professional environment. This issue not only jeopardizes the safety and well-being of nursing staff but also adversely affects patient care and the overall healthcare system.

Prevalence of Workplace Violence

Recent studies highlight the alarming frequency of workplace violence against nurses:

• A 2023 report by National Nurses United (NNU) revealed that 81.6% of nurses experienced at least one type of workplace violence in the past year. Additionally, 45.5% reported an increase in such incidents on their unit during the same period. nationalnursesunited.org
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare and social service workers are five times more likely to suffer a workplace violence injury than workers in other sectors. bls.gov
• A 2019 survey by the American Nurses Association (ANA) found that one in four nurses reported being physically assaulted, underscoring the pervasive nature of this issue. NursingWorld.org

Impact on Nurses and Healthcare Delivery

The repercussions of workplace violence are profound:

• Physical and Emotional Harm: Nurses may sustain injuries ranging from minor bruises to severe trauma. The psychological impact can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout.
• Staffing Challenges: The threat of violence contributes to high turnover rates, as many nurses consider leaving their positions or the profession entirely due to safety concerns.
• Patient Care: A hostile work environment can compromise patient care quality, as stressed or injured nurses may struggle to perform optimally.

ANA’s Position and Recommendations

The American Nurses Association (ANA) has taken a definitive stance against workplace violence. In its position statement, the ANA emphasizes that all nurses and employers must collaborate to create a culture of respect, free from incivility, bullying, and violence. The organization advocates for:

• Zero Tolerance Policies: Implementing strict policies against any form of workplace violence.
• Education and Training: Providing resources and training to help nurses recognize, prevent, and respond to violent situations.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing clear procedures for reporting incidents without fear of retaliation.
• Support Systems: Offering support services for affected nurses, including counseling and debriefing sessions.

Read more about ANA’s Positions here. View The Landscape of Wisconsin’s Workplace Violence Towards Nurses – Education, Practice, and Policy here.

What Nurses Can Do to Protect Themselves

While systemic change is necessary to fully address workplace violence, nurses can take proactive steps to enhance their personal safety and resilience:

• Know Your Rights – Familiarize yourself with your employer’s workplace violence prevention policies, reporting procedures, and available resources. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the ANA both offer guidelines on workplace safety for healthcare workers. (OSHA Healthcare Workplace Violence)
• Report All Incidents – Even minor incidents should be documented and reported to supervisors or workplace safety committees. Underreporting can lead to a lack of awareness and necessary policy changes.
• Participate in Training – Many healthcare organizations offer de-escalation training, self-defense courses, and situational awareness programs. Engaging in these can help nurses recognize and respond effectively to potentially violent situations.
• Utilize Support Systems – Seeking peer support, counseling, or professional assistance after experiencing workplace violence can help mitigate emotional and psychological stress. Many hospitals and professional associations offer wellness programs specifically for nurses.
• Advocate for Change – Nurses can join professional organizations like the ANA to push for stronger workplace protections, better staffing ratios, and stricter penalties for workplace violence. (WNA’s Advocacy for Workplace Safety)

By taking these steps, nurses can help create a safer work environment for themselves and their colleagues while reinforcing the importance of institutional change.

Addressing workplace violence in nursing is imperative for safeguarding the health and well-being of nurses and ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care. Through comprehensive policies, education, and a commitment to a respectful workplace culture, healthcare institutions can mitigate the risks and foster a safer environment for all.