Optimizing Workplace Violence Reporting in a Multisite Hospital Setting: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Workplace violence (WPV) poses a significant risk in healthcare settings.
• Accurate reporting of WPV is essential for effective intervention strategies.
• A quality improvement (QI) initiative was implemented at an academic health sciences center to address WPV reporting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the accuracy of workplace violence (WPV) reporting.
• To optimize the electronic reporting process for WPV events.
• To ensure timely and appropriate follow-up for WPV incidents.

Main Methods:

• The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model guided the quality improvement initiative.
• Modifications were made to an electronic incident reporting form over two PDSA cycles.
• The initiative focused on reducing reporting inaccuracies and improving leadership/WHSW follow-up.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant reduction in the proportion of inaccurate WPV reporting was observed (p = .001).
• The revised reporting process led to increased staff follow-up and support from the Workplace Health, Safety, and Wellness (WHSW) team.
• The QI initiative demonstrated improved incident data accuracy and enhanced staff support.

Conclusions:

• Simple adjustments to WPV reporting, specifically revising the electronic form, significantly improved data accuracy.
• The initiative positively impacted staff follow-up and support mechanisms.
• Findings contribute to enhanced staff and patient safety within the organization.