Factors associated with workplace violence among healthcare workers in an academic medical center

Purpose: We examined demographic, work-related, and behavioral factors associated with witnessing and/or experiencing workplace violence among healthcare workers. Design and Methods: Utilizing a correlational design, we analyzed the data to determine the associative factors related to workplace violence among the participants. Findings: More than half of the participants (54.5%) reported witnessing (23.8%) or experiencing (30.7%) workplace violence. There were significant differences between health provider groups in witnessing or experiencing workplace violence (Χ² = 41.9[df12], p < 0.0001). Moreover, the experience of workplace violence differed by practice setting (Χ² = 65.9[df14], p < 0.0001), with highest rates occurring in psychiatric (45.1%) and emergency (44.1%) services. Practice Implications: Findings may inform research, policies, and practice interventions to assess risks for workplace violence and implement preventative policies within high-risk professional groups and settings.