Workplace Violence in the Emergency Healthcare Setting: Balancing the Needs

Hospital XYZ is located in an urban area of the United States. Over the past three years, Hospital XYZ cared for an average of 668 patients per year whom required precautionary measures be taken to protect the patient and/or staff. An average of 152 of these patients were assaultive, and as a result, an average of thirteen employees per year suffered recordable injuries due to the violent behavior of these patients. The purpose of this study is to minimize the risk of workplace violence within Hospital XYZ. Prior to the study, a literature review aimed to identify strategies available to define, evaluate and manage workplace violence within healthcare facilities. The researcher then engaged in an observational study of workplace violence incidents within Hospital XYZ. Using a targeted survey, the researcher interviewed the healthcare workers who were first exposed to each of the violent incidents observed. The data collected was subsequently analyzed to evaluate potential factors that may be used to assess workplace violence; how workplace violence is perceived, and consequently misperceived; identify potential controls to manage workplace violence; and finally provide Hospital XYZ with recommendations to minimize the risk associated with workplace violence and further protect its employees. ii