Healthcare Workers Beware: We Have The Highest Levels of Workplace Violence
Safety in Healthcare: A Growing Concern
We enter the healthcare profession with the noble goal of helping others. Yet, increasingly, we find ourselves facing a hidden danger: violence within our own workplaces. It's a chilling reality that healthcare workers are now recognized as having the highest levels of workplace violence and third-highest levels of employee burnout.
This isn't about the inherent risks of dealing with illnesses or medical procedures. We're talking about deliberate acts of aggression, from passive-aggressive behavior, verbal abuse and threats to physical assaults and even, tragically, shootings.
The Alarming Statistics of Violence in Healthcare
The statistics paint a grim picture:
Healthcare workers account for 73% of all nonfatal workplace violence injuries. (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
In 2018, there were over 12,000 assaults in hospitals alone. (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Medical and Health Care industries have the 3rd highest level of employee burnout rate in 2019 at 77%. (Statista.com)
These numbers are not just figures on a page; they represent real people – our colleagues, friends, and even ourselves – who have been impacted by this escalating crisis.
Why is Healthcare Violence on the Rise?
There's no single answer, but several factors contribute to this disturbing trend:
Increased stress and frustration: Patients and their families are often under immense stress due to illness, long wait times, and financial concerns. This can sometimes boil over into aggression towards healthcare staff.
Mental health and substance abuse: Individuals experiencing mental health crises or under the influence of substances may exhibit unpredictable and violent behavior.
Lack of security: Many healthcare facilities have inadequate security measures, leaving staff vulnerable to attacks.
Normalization of violence: A culture of acceptance towards aggressive behavior towards healthcare workers can perpetuate the problem.
The Impact on Healthcare Workers
The consequences of workplace violence extend far beyond physical injuries. Healthcare workers who experience or witness violence often suffer from:
Emotional trauma: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and burnout are common.
Fear and decreased job satisfaction: Feeling unsafe at work can lead to decreased morale and productivity.
Increased absenteeism and turnover: Many healthcare workers leave the profession due to violence, exacerbating staffing shortages.
Protecting Ourselves: Practical Safety Tips for Healthcare Professionals in Boise, Idaho (and Beyond)
It's clear that we can't rely solely on our institutions to protect us. We need to be proactive in safeguarding ourselves. Here are some practical tips:
Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and observant of patient behavior. Trust your instincts if you sense a potential threat.
De-escalation techniques: Learn verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques to calm agitated individuals.
Personal safety training: Consider taking a self-defense course specifically designed for healthcare workers.
Report all incidents: No matter how minor, report every instance of violence or aggression to your supervisor. This helps track the problem and implement preventative measures.
Advocate for change: Demand better security measures, improved mental health resources, and zero-tolerance policies towards workplace violence.
Empowering Healthcare Workers Through Self-Defense
At The Warrior Within LLC, we understand the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Our course, "Dealing with Combative Patients: A Self-Defense Course for Healthcare Workers," is designed to empower you with the skills and confidence to protect yourself in challenging situations.
This course goes beyond basic self-defense techniques. It addresses the specific needs of healthcare workers, focusing on:
Verbal de-escalation strategies: Learn how to defuse tense situations with effective communication.
Physical self-defense techniques: Develop practical skills to protect yourself from physical attacks while adhering to professional boundaries.
Awareness and avoidance: Recognize potential threats and learn how to avoid dangerous situations altogether.
Legal and ethical considerations: Understand the legal implications of using self-defense in a healthcare setting.
Don't Become a Statistic: Take Control of Your Safety
We cannot allow ourselves to become victims. By prioritizing our safety and demanding change, we can create a safer working environment for all healthcare professionals.
Remember, your safety is paramount. Invest in yourself, take our course, and empower yourself with the tools and knowledge to protect yourself while continuing to provide compassionate care.
Take the First Step Towards a Safer Workplace:
Resources:
Attacks at US medical centers show why health care is one of the nation’s most violent fields: <https://apnews.com/article/hospitals-workplace-violence-shootings-aa6918569ff8f76ff8a15b9813e31686>
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Guidelines on Workplace Violence in Healthcare: https://www.osha.gov/healthcare/workplace-violence
The Joint Commission Resources on Workplace Violence Prevention: https://www.jointcommission.org/resources/patient-safety-topics/workplace-violence-prevention/
