Computer-based training (CBT) intervention reduces workplace violence and harassment for homecare workers

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health Interventions
• Healthcare Worker Safety

Background:

• Workplace violence and harassment pose significant risks to female homecare workers.
• A consumer-driven model of care presents unique challenges for worker safety.
• Existing prevention programs require evaluation for effectiveness in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a workplace violence and harassment prevention and response program.
• To compare computer-based training (CBT) alone versus CBT with peer facilitation.
• To evaluate program impact on confidence, incident rates, and health/work outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial design involving female homecare workers.
• Intervention groups: CBT only vs. CBT with homecare worker peer facilitation.
• Data collection at baseline, 3, and 6 months, measuring confidence, incidents, and health/work outcomes.

Main Results:

• Both intervention groups reported increased confidence in preventing and responding to workplace violence and harassment.
• A significant reduction in reported incidents of workplace violence and harassment was observed in both groups at 6-month follow-up.
• No significant decrease in negative health and work outcomes associated with violence and harassment was found.

Conclusions:

• Computer-based training (CBT), with or without peer facilitation, is effective in enhancing homecare worker confidence.
• The program successfully reduced the incidence of workplace violence and harassment in this setting.
• Further research may be needed to address the impact on associated negative health and work outcomes.