The experiences of midwives with violence from patients, their relatives and friends: A study in perinatal center in Lithuania

Workplace violence against healthcare professionals, particularly midwives, is a significant concern worldwide. Verbal violence, often underreported, can lead to emotional distress and impact professional performance. This study explores experiences of midwives with patient- and relative-related violence in a Lithuanian perinatal center.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to February 2022 at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences using a modified version of the 'Violence in Nursing and Midwifery' questionnaire. All midwives (n=90) working in this institution were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire (response rate 80%, n=72). Primary outcomes were the frequency and types of workplace violence experienced by midwives. Secondary outcome measures included changes in midwives' emotional and professional state, coping mechanisms and actions taken after an episode of violence.

The majority (70.8%) of participants experienced or witnessed verbal violence, manifesting as unreasonable demands (72.5%), rudeness (66.7%), and anger (60.8%), with no physical violence reported. Emotional consequences included unhappiness (66.7%), anger (58.8%), irritability (41.2%), burnout (50.9%), and sleep disturbances (31.4%). The most effective actions in dealing with the psychological consequences of violence were informal debriefing with staff members (70.6%) and talking with friends and family after an episode (52.9%). Underreporting was common due to perceived ineffectiveness of long-term change, despite clear reporting procedures.

Verbal workplace violence is widespread among midwives and contributes to psychological and professional distress. Strengthening organizational support, implementing targeted training programs, and establishing a national monitoring system are essential to address and prevent workplace violence in healthcare settings.