Introduction
Workplace violence is a significant concern in emergency departments (EDs) due to the high-stress, crowded, and emotionally charged nature of emergencies. Additionally, patients in the ED may be involved in criminal activity, carry weapons, or be influenced by external conflicts, all of which can increase the risk of violence toward healthcare employees.
Workplace Violence in Emergency Rooms
Emergency room staff are at a heightened risk for workplace violence. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, hospital employees experience intentional injuries caused by others at a much higher rate than employees in other private industries. In 2015, there were 8.5 cases of such injuries per 10,000 full-time hospital workers, compared to 1.7 cases per 10,000 across all private industries.
Further, the Emergency Nurses Association reports that nearly half (46%) of all non-fatal assaults resulting in days away from work occur against registered nurses, highlighting the elevated vulnerability of ED staff to workplace violence.