Workplace violence among healthcare providers in India: a mixed-method study

Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers is a growing concern globally. This study aims to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with WPV among healthcare workers in South India. The study also aims to evaluate the effects and potential solutions for reducing it.

The study adopted a mixed-methods approach (convergent parallel). A cross-sectional survey with a pre-tested questionnaire was conducted among 243 healthcare workers, which included doctors, nurses and paramedics, to assess demographics, occupational characteristics, WPV experiences, consequences and prevention. 20 in-depth interviews and thematic analysis were carried out using an inductive approach.

62.6% of participants experienced WPV at some point in their lives. Verbal abuse (62.1%) was more common than physical assault (13.6%). Younger, less experienced and unmarried healthcare workers were more likely to experience WPV. Thematic analysis revealed factors contributing to WPV, including communication gaps and patient/bystander behaviour, systemic issues, cultural factors, personal issues of healthcare staff, hospital-associated factors, etc. WPV consequences included fear, mental trauma, defensive medicine practices and potential migration.

This study highlights the significant prevalence of WPV and its negative impact on healthcare workers in India. The findings suggest a need for multifaceted interventions to address WPV, including improved communication strategies, patient/bystander education and organisational changes to enhance safety in the workplace.