Cultural Dimensions of Workplace Violence in Healthcare: A Narrative Review

Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers is a global concern, affecting safety, well-being, and job satisfaction. Cultural factors significantly influence aggression dynamics, making their understanding crucial for targeted prevention strategies.

This study aims to identify and analyze the cultural factors contributing to WPV and to explore how these elements influence both aggression dynamics and the effectiveness of strategies for its prevention and mitigation.

A narrative review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Literature searches in PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus identified studies on cultural dimensions of WPV in healthcare. A thematic analysis synthesized findings.

Eight studies were included in the review. The analysis identified four primary cultural dimensions contributing to WPV: (1) Ethnic and linguistic disparities: Healthcare workers from minority backgrounds face higher risks due to language barriers and cultural biases, leading to miscommunication and increased aggression. (2) Female healthcare professionals, particularly in patriarchal or hierarchical workplaces, are disproportionately affected by WPV due to structural power imbalances and gender stereotypes. (3) Sociocultural perceptions of healthcare workers: Patients' expectations of "unconditional care" can heighten frustration and aggression when unmet, particularly in underfunded or resource-limited healthcare settings. (4) Cultural normalization and underreporting: In many cultures, WPV is perceived as an inherent part of the profession, discouraging formal reporting and institutional responses.

Cultural factors shape WPV prevalence, reporting, and management. Addressing these factors through culturally competent interventions, language accessibility, gender-sensitive policies, and institutional reforms is essential for safer workplaces. Future research should standardize WPV prevention strategies integrating cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication training.

Nursing management plays a key role in WPV prevention through culturally competent strategies, gender-sensitive policies, and systemic reforms. Implementing cultural competence training, language accessibility, and zero-tolerance policies can enhance safety. Strengthening reporting mechanisms and advocating for adequate staffing are crucial steps in mitigating WPV and fostering a safer healthcare environment.