Workplace Violence: Impact on the Commitment and Involvement of Nurses at Work

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Occupational Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Workplace violence is a growing concern, with nursing professionals being particularly vulnerable.
• Understanding the impact of violence on healthcare workers is crucial for maintaining a healthy work environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the relationship between workplace violence and work engagement in nursing professionals.
• To identify the prevalence and types of violence experienced by nurses.
• To assess the impact of violence on nurses' dedication, vigor, and absorption in their work.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on a national sample of Spanish nurses.
• Data were collected using convenience, non-probabilistic sampling via questionnaires.
• The Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9) and an ad hoc violence scale were utilized.

Main Results:

• 1648 nursing professionals participated; higher scores were observed in the 'dedication' component of work engagement.
• 42.17% of participants reported experiencing workplace aggression or violence, with verbal aggression being most frequent.
• Nurses experiencing violence, threats, or psychological harassment exhibited lower work engagement levels.

Conclusions:

• Personal experiences of violence, threats, or psychological harassment negatively affect nurses' work engagement.
• Verbal aggression, often from patients or family members, is the most common form of violence.
• Healthcare institutions require improved support mechanisms to assist nurses who experience workplace violence.