Workplace Violence in Healthcare: Understanding Risks and Strategies for Prevention

Workplace Violence in Healthcare

Violence in the workplace, particularly in healthcare settings, can originate from a variety of sources, including criminals, disgruntled patients or family members, current or former employees, and personal relationships. Among these, patient-related violence is especially common in healthcare environments. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how to minimize the risks associated with these forms of violence to ensure a safe workplace for everyone.

Identifying Unique Risk Factors

The first step for healthcare employers is to identify the specific risk factors that may contribute to workplace violence within their organizations. This is particularly important in multi-employer settings within the healthcare industry, where different entities may have varying protocols and approaches. For example, home healthcare and hospice care present unique challenges due to fluctuating environmental factors that differ from one patient to another. By recognizing these risk factors, healthcare providers can tailor their training and prevention efforts to meet specific needs, thereby reducing the likelihood of violent incidents.

​Effective Strategies for Prevention

When evaluating strategies to combat workplace violence, it is essential to weigh the cost and effort against the potential outcomes. A multi-faceted approach that includes control and prevention tactics, regular training and education, thorough investigation and record-keeping, and the adoption of new technologies can be effective. Certain training measures are mandatory for healthcare facilities, especially those frequently interacting with patients. Conducting annual refreshers for staff in patient contact roles and providing additional training for those responsible for managing alarms and violent situations can enhance preparedness. Integrating specific elements that address unique operational hazards into existing training programs can ensure comprehensive coverage without incurring substantial costs. While background checks can be expensive, they are invaluable in preventing potential issues that may arise from past conflicts or convictions before hiring.

Beyond Just Increased Security

Although increasing security measures may seem like the simplest solution, it is not always the most effective approach. In healthcare environments, where security is typically more stringent, focusing solely on adding security personnel often fails to address the underlying issues. Instead, implementing protocols for managing aggressive or violent behavior, controlling access points, and ensuring that staff are properly trained to handle such situations can provide a more balanced and cost-effective strategy.

Response Strategies for Violent Situations

When confronted with a threatening or violent situation, de-escalation should be the primary focus. According to a study by Oregon OSHA, only 1% of assault claims involve a weapon, indicating that effective de-escalation techniques are often more valuable than evacuation in mitigating dangerous situations. In healthcare, understanding the root causes of patient frustration or disorientation can lead to successful interventions by trained staff. By addressing these underlying issues, personnel can help create a calmer environment that ultimately benefits both patients and staff.

Conclusion

Minimizing workplace violence in healthcare requires a comprehensive understanding of unique risks, implementation of targeted prevention strategies, and an emphasis on de-escalation training. By adopting a holistic approach that combines awareness, tailored training, and effective communication, healthcare organizations can foster a safer environment for both employees and patients, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for all involved.

Risk Control

AmTrust’s Risk Control department can provide expert advice necessary for ensuring your organization’s ongoing success. From commercial property protection to healthcare specific industry resources, we can create a customized risk control program designed specifically for your business. Contact us today to learn more.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purposes. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Coverage may vary by location. Contact your local RSM for more information.