PATIENT VIOLENCE AGAINST HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Patient violence towards healthcare workers is a significant issue many hospitals and other healthcare facilities face today. With the number of workplace violence injuries on the rise and with a vast majority of perpetrators being identified as patients, this paper aims to provide a review of the literature pertaining to patient violence against healthcare workers while identifying and describing potential solutions inclusive of an implementation plan for a new program focused on preventing patient-related violence against healthcare workers. Findings of the literature review indicate that the common causes of violent behavior from patients are feelings of stress or not having control. The literature also suggests that consequence of patient violence against healthcare workers may include both physical and mental effects; and financial consequences at the organizational level. Ultimately, the literature indicates the need to recognize risk factors and solutions in order to create a safer work environment for healthcare workers.