Unmasking the silent epidemic: Prevalence of workplace violence against healthcare workers in wad Madani hospital, Gezira, Sudan (2023)

Abstract

Introduction: Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers (HCW) is a globally recognized issue with significant implications for both the well-being of staff and the quality of patient care. Studies have shown that healthcare workers are at a higher risk of experiencing workplace violence compared to other professions due to the nature of their work, which involves direct patient care and often high-stress situations. This study investigates the prevalence and impact of workplace violence against healthcare workers at Wad Madani Hospital, Gezira state, Sudan. Methodology: Utilizing a hospital-based cross-sectional design, data was collected from 120 participants, including physicians, nurses, and support staff, through a well-structured questionnaire. Results: There were 120 participants, females were predominant, 88 participants (73.3%), and 30% of the respondents were between 25-29 years old. Most of the participants were either doctors (60.8%) or nurses (17.5%). In the last 12 months, 45 (37.5%) had been subjected to violence in the workplace while 75 (62.5%) had not. Physical violence was reported by 22 (48.9%) out of 45 who were subjected to violence and psychological was reported by 23 (51.1%) and the majority of perpetrators were relatives of patient (40.0%) and 22.2% were patients themselves. 51.1% took time off from work after. No action was taken against the perpetrator in 40% of them. 45.8% of the participants witnessed physical violence during the past year. 58.3% of the participants reported that, there were no procedures for reporting WPV. The findings revealed a significant incidence of workplace violence, Conclusion: The study concluded that WPV incidence was high in Wad-Medani Teaching Hospital and the violence was mostly physical and psychological. The majority of perpetrators were either patients or their relatives and no action was taken against most of them. No clear reporting system for the violence incidents. There is an urgent need for comprehensive strategies, including robust reporting mechanisms, support systems, and preventive measures, to address workplace violence. Collaborative efforts from healthcare institutions, policymakers, and the community are essential.