STOP VIOLENCE AGAINST NURSES
Content
Patient violence toward emergency room nurses is a serious concern (Hassankhani et al., 2018). A policy is necessary to protect nurses from violence aimed at leaders and other nurses. This policy must recognize the risk, conduct a thorough evaluation, put preventative measures into place, offer channels for reporting, and support the affected nurses (Azami et al., 2018). Within two months of doing a thorough review of the organization’s need for change, the policy should be put into effect.
The number of incidents of violence against ER workers is rising. Around one in ten ER nurses, according to a report by the Emergency Nurses Association in November 2011, have experienced physical assault in the previous seven days (Docksai, 2019). There could have been more incidents than were reported.
OSHA records show that 75% of the 25,000 assault cases recorded each year involved nurses or social workers. According to the ANA, incidents of psychical and psychological abuse against nurses occur when they are on duty, especially in the emergency room (2019).
Violent occurrences cost the hospital much money because of absences and the cost of treating the hurt nurses.
Most violent crimes are committed by people seeking treatment for mental problems in emergency rooms. The high prevalence of violence serves as the rationale for the policy changes.
Details
Quick regulatory action is required, given the prevalence of workplace violence against nurses countrywide. Stakeholder suggestions comprise:
Congress and state legislatures should amend current laws and enact new ones to protect nurses at work.
To penalize criminals, the law needs to be reinforced and clarified.
OSHA should require healthcare CEOs to comply fully.
Governmental agencies like OSHA should insist on precise reporting.
Healthcare organizations should develop and implement workplace safety rules and strategies.
Leaders of the healthcare system should instruct nurses in self-defense techniques.
Standards for nurses’ safety should be developed and put into effect by nursing organizations and boards.