Managing physical assault in a healthcare setting

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Safety
• Occupational Health
• Emergency Preparedness

Background:

• Healthcare settings are experiencing rising levels of workplace violence.
• Healthcare workers are identified as a population at significant risk of assault.
• Existing literature suggests self-defense training may mitigate risks associated with workplace violence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the risks of violence faced by healthcare workers.
• To introduce basic self-defense techniques applicable in healthcare settings.
• To inform healthcare professionals about strategies to manage and respond to potential violence.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on workplace violence in healthcare.
• Description of fundamental self-defense principles and techniques.
• Emphasis on de-escalation and prevention as primary strategies.

Main Results:

• Healthcare workers with self-defense training report fewer attacks.
• Trained individuals experience less severe injuries when assaults occur.
• De-escalation and verbal intervention are prioritized over physical defense.

Conclusions:

• Self-defense training is a valuable tool for enhancing healthcare worker safety.
• Proactive measures, including training, are crucial for mitigating violence risks.
• Healthcare professionals should be equipped with strategies for self-protection.