Healthcare workers experience verbal and physical assaults in the workplace daily. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), of the nearly 25,000 workplace assaults that occur annually, 75% happen in healthcare settings. What happens after a verbal or physical assault? How does the industry culture address this silent epidemic of violence? Where can survivors find support after surviving healthcare workplace violence?
An RN with over 30 years' experience and survivor of a violent attack by a patient, the author realistically discusses the challenges facing those employed in the trenches of healthcare today. Also included are suggestions to promote healing after experiencing workplace violence, such as:
- Providing victims of workplace violence with a "first aid kit" packed with concrete ideas for regaining physical, emotional and spiritual equilibrium
- Finding your voice to advocate for improvements in healthcare workplace safety
- Encouraging guided self-reflection through the use of bullet journal pages
- Acknowledging the personal stories and struggles of those who have been victims of violence in the workplace