Violence Against Emergency Department Health Care Workers and the Effect of Wisconsin Act 209
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Most emergency department workers in Wisconsin experience workplace violence, but few report incidents. A 2021 law did not significantly improve safety perceptions or reduce violence rates.
Area Of Science
- Healthcare Administration
- Occupational Health
- Public Health Policy
Background
- Workplace violence is prevalent in healthcare settings, particularly in emergency departments.
- Wisconsin Act 209 (2021) criminalized causing or threatening bodily harm to healthcare facility workers.
Purpose Of The Study
- To assess emergency department workers' experiences with violence.
- To evaluate the perceived impact of Wisconsin Act 209 on workplace safety.
Main Methods
- A survey was distributed to nurses, physicians, and advanced practice providers in Wisconsin emergency departments.
- Data collection occurred between March 23, 2022, and June 30, 2023.
Main Results
- 70.6% of respondents reported experiencing bodily harm or threats; most incidents were not reported.
- Nurses reported more threats than physicians. Many were unaware of Act 209, and most felt violence rates remained unchanged.
- Barriers to reporting included concerns about complicating medical conditions and perceptions of law enforcement.
Conclusions
- Despite legislation, healthcare worker violence persists, with underreporting being a significant issue.
- Barriers to reporting extend beyond clinical factors to include law enforcement capacity and attitudes.
- Further strategies are needed to prioritize healthcare worker safety and well-being.
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