Workplace Violence Pervasiveness in the Perioperative Environment: A Multiprofessional Survey

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Occupational Health
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Workplace violence in healthcare is a growing concern impacting patient safety and clinician well-being.
• Regulatory requirements, such as updated Joint Commission standards, are increasing.
• Existing surveys on workplace violence in healthcare settings are limited, especially in the perioperative environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence and nature of workplace violence in the perioperative setting.
• To identify factors associated with experiencing or witnessing workplace violence.
• To understand the resolution of reported incidents.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, prospective survey was conducted among anesthesiologist assistants, certified registered nurse anesthetists, physicians, and registered nurses in perioperative care.
• Data were collected using simultaneous convenience sampling across professional societies.
• Descriptive statistics, multivariable regression, and thematic analysis of open-text entries were employed.

Main Results:

• A significant majority of respondents (78.2%) reported experiencing or witnessing workplace violence.
• Physical workplace violence was reported by 31.0% and witnessed by 36.9% of respondents.
• Nonphysical workplace violence was experienced by 69.2% of respondents, with low satisfaction regarding resolution (49.8% for physical, 31.4% for nonphysical).

Conclusions:

• Workplace violence is a common occurrence affecting all perioperative professionals.
• There is an urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate and eliminate workplace violence.
• Addressing workplace violence is crucial for protecting both patients and healthcare staff.