Workplace violence (WPV) is defined as violence, bullying, incivility, harassment, and microaggressions between parties connected via a work setting.
Healthcare workers (HCW’s) have been found to be 5 times more likely to experience WPV compared to the general public. Worldwide there has been an increase in WPV against HCWs, despite gross under-reporting. COVID-19 has been found to further exacerbate this issue, with a 2021 global study showing that HCWs were 50% more likely to be harassed.
In 2021, H.R.1195 The Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act was proposed in an attempt to address the increasing prevalence of WPV in healthcare settings. The bill has passed the House and is now awaiting approval from the Senate. More information on the bill can be found below, along with PowerPoints that delve into definitions of WPV, the types of WPV, risk factors of WPV, and consequences of WPV.
It is imperative that we discuss and attempt to address the pandemic proportions of WPV against HCWs, as the costs of these incidents are significant. Ultimately, repeated exposure to violence and bullying can cost HCWs their mental health and their careers. Healthcare institutions have the knowledge and resources to reduce the number and severity of violent events. Improving physical safety in healthcare institutions is central to improving psychological safety. Violence should be a never event.
IMPACT in Healthcare is also compiling stories from HCWs who have experienced WPV. IMPACT hopes that by sharing HCWs stories we can raise awareness and work toward the safe work environment HCWs deserve. If you are comfortable please share your story with us here
