Workplace violence in hospitals: safe havens no more
Warren, B.
Journal of Healthcare Protection Management Publication of the International Association for Hospital Security 27(2): 9-17
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0891-7930 PMID: 21916279 Document Number: 651826
Healthcare presents many security challenges, particularly when it comes to workplace violence prevention. With a staff population that is approximately 80% female, 24-hour operations, numerous points of ingress and egress, and the high tension environment that exists in today's hospitals and urgent care centers, the stage is set for the "perfect storm" of workplace violence, the author points out. He cites statistics that healthcare workers are at a much higher risk of victimization than workers in other industries. The best strategy to prevent workplace violence in the healthcare environment, he says, is to develop a corporate culture that supports respect, open communication, employee involvement and participation and an effective training program.