With an increased focus on workplace violence in nursing, healthcare organizations offer multiple resources ranging from training to mental health support. It’s crucial for nurses to be aware of the resources available to protect themselves and seek support when needed.
After being assaulted by a patient, a nurse might feel alone, wonder whether to report the incident or assume no help is available. In fact, nurses have a growing number of resources for support and guidance, both at their institutions and externally. Let’s explore resources available to address workplace violence in nursing.
The scope of workplace violence in nursing
Most (64%) nurses across all license types reported verbal abuse, and 23% reported physical assault or abuse by patient or a patient’s family member, according to our Nurse.com 2024 Nurse Salary and Work-Life Report.
Nurses often face volatile situations that can lead to aggression or violence from patients, family members, or even colleagues. This violence can take many forms, including verbal abuse, physical assaults, and in some cases, life-threatening situations.
Nurses are among the most at-risk professionals for experiencing violence at work. Additionally, violence in healthcare is vastly underreported, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
5 resources for workplace violence in nursing
Healthcare organizations have a duty to create and maintain a safe work environment as well as working conditions for all employees, including nurses. Many organizations have implemented these five resources:
1. Workplace violence prevention programs: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends that all hospitals implement a comprehensive violence prevention program. These programs may include training on recognizing and de-escalating violent situations, reporting mechanisms, and support systems for affected employees.
2. Training: Nurses should actively participate in training sessions aimed at preventing workplace violence in nursing. Utilizing de-escalation techniques during volatile situations can reduce immediate risks for nurses, for instance.
3. Employee assistance programs (EAPs): These programs offer confidential services to help employees deal with personal and professional issues (including workplace violence). Nurses can obtain counseling, stress management resources, or referrals.
4. Committees that address workplace violence: By participating in committees, nurses can advocate for a safer work environment. Nurses can voice concerns about workplace violence in nursing, contribute to policy development at their institutions, and help promote a culture of safety.
5. Incident reporting systems: Timely reporting ensures that appropriate measures can be taken to protect staff and prevent further incidents. Yet nurses are known to underreport workplace violence, often because of fear of consequences for reporting and lack of knowledge on reporting procedures. Nurses should be aware of the process for reporting incidents of violence or threats, and feel supported in doing so.
Legal and regulatory protections
Nurses must take appropriate action to protect themselves and seek justice. Nurses should familiarize themselves with these legal and regulatory resources:
- OSHA guidance: OSHA’s Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence for Health Care and Social Services Workers outline the responsibilities of employers in creating safe work environments and providing resources for employees to report violations.
- State and federal laws: Many states have specific laws aimed at protecting healthcare workers from workplace violence. These laws include enhanced penalties for assaults on healthcare workers, requiring facilities to develop violence prevention plans, and prohibiting retaliation against staff members who report occurrences of workplace violence.
- Worker’s compensation and disability benefits: These benefits can provide financial support while a nurse recovers from physical or psychological injuries. It is important for all nursing staff to understand the process for filing claims, and the type of compensation available.
Building a culture of safety and support
Individual nurses should become familiar with available resources for workplace violence in nursing. However, it’s equally important for healthcare institutions to foster a supportive work culture for nurses. Here are some effective strategies:
- Promoting awareness and education. Educating nurses on how to prevent and respond to workplace violence is fundamental in establishing and maintaining a safer work environment. Healthcare institutions should regularly conduct training sessions, workshops, and seminars focused on de-escalation techniques and the proper use of reporting systems.
- Encouraging nurses to report incidents. Nurses should feel empowered to report workplace violence without fear of retaliation or stigma. According to the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses’ Position Statement, hospitals should encourage employees to press charges against individuals who assault healthcare workers.
- Implementing strong policies and protocols. Strong enforcement mechanisms ensure nurses feel protected and supported in their work environment. Nurses should have clear guidelines on reporting procedures, requirements for de-escalation training, and how regular safety assessments will be conducted. Institutions should regularly review and update workplace violence policies, to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging risks.
- Leadership involvement and accountability. Healthcare leaders must take an active role in preventing workplace violence and supporting affected staff. This includes providing necessary resources, fostering a supportive work environment, and ensuring all incidents are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
Mental health and emotional support resources
The psychological impact of workplace violence in nursing can be profound. For many nurses, it leads to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Access to these mental health resources is crucial for nurses dealing with the aftermath of violence:
- Counseling and therapy. Seeking professional help early can prevent long-term psychological effects. Whether provided through EAPs or external mental health professionals, therapy can help those impacted by workplace violence to process their feelings and experiences and develop coping strategies.
- Peer support groups. Nurses benefit from a safe space to share their experiences, offer mutual support, and discuss coping strategies. Additionally, being part of a support group can reduce feelings of isolation caused by workplace violence in nursing.
- Trauma-informed care training. This approach helps healthcare providers understand the impact of trauma on themselves and others, fostering a supportive environment that promotes healing and resilience. For nurses who’ve experienced workplace violence, it can offer tools for managing their own stress and emotional responses.
- Hotlines and crisis intervention services. Nurses experiencing acute emotional distress from any issue, including workplace violence in nursing, can reach out for immediate assistance. For example, the 988 Lifeline offers 24/7 support by phone, text, or chat for anyone in distress.
Nurses need comprehensive resources
By providing nurses with resources such as de-escalation training proactively, organizations can prevent workplace violence in nursing. If an incident does occur, good reporting procedures and mental health resources are essential.
It’s crucial for nurses to be familiar with, and use, all available support, both inside and outside their institutions. Resources such as training, counseling, and legal protection empower nurses to ensure their safety, mental well-being, and job satisfaction.
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