Exposure to Violence for Nurses Across Ethnic Groups: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing and Healthcare Management
• Public Health
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Workplace violence is a significant issue affecting healthcare professionals globally.
• Nurses from ethnic minority backgrounds may face unique challenges and vulnerabilities related to violence exposure.
• Understanding the social context of violence is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the social context of violence experienced by hospital-based and community nurses from diverse ethnic groups.
• To identify the types of violence encountered both within and outside the workplace.
• To examine the impact of violence on the mental and physical health of these nurses.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, qualitative study design was employed.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted online with 12 nurses in London, England.
• Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data.

Main Results:

• Four key themes emerged: social context of community violence exposure, types of workplace violence, contributing factors to workplace violence, and health impacts.
• Nurses from different ethnic groups reported experiencing and witnessing violence in various settings.
• Violence exposure was linked to negative mental and physical health outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Violence exposure, both in and out of the workplace, negatively affects the mental and physical health of nurses from ethnic minority backgrounds.
• A multi-factorial approach is necessary for violence prevention, addressing social and institutional factors.
• Healthcare leaders must enhance mental health support for diverse staff, prioritizing systemic organizational changes for improved well-being and retention.