Nurse-reported workplace violent events: Results from a repeated statewide survey

Abstract

Background

Workplace violence significantly affects registered nurses, contributing to burnout and intention to leave.

Methods

The Michigan Nurses Study conducted surveys in 2022 and 2023, examining the prevalence of verbal, physical, and sexual violence, and coworker bullying. Personal and workplace factors associated with reporting any violent event were examined using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

There was a decline in overall workplace violence from 50.2% to 43.4%, despite a rise in sexual harassment from 9.9% to 11.8%. Over half of the events were patient-sourced. Underreporting remained a problem. Factors associated with increased likelihood of reporting any violent event included younger age, employment in acute care and long-term care settings, unfavorable practice environments, less confidence in management, inadequate support for workplace stress, and understaffing on the past shift.

Conclusion

Despite a decrease in reported violent events, incidents remain common. Improvements in working conditions, management of understaffing, and support systems are crucial to mitigate workplace violence against nurses.