Tuesday, May 20, 2025
To address the growing threat of workplace violence in healthcare, the and have developed a comprehensive resource guide and online course to help healthcare
professionals recognize, prevent and respond to violent incidents.
Workplace violence in healthcare has become an increasing concern, with incidents occurring at rates significantly higher than in other industries. A found that the number of healthcare workers reporting harassment at work more than doubled in 2022 compared with 2018. These incidents include threats, bullying, verbal abuse and other actions from patients and coworkers that contribute to a hostile work environment.
In response, the American Osteopathic Association partnered with SaferCare Texas, the patient safety institute of The , to develop a comprehensive resource guide and online course that provide evidence-based strategies to help healthcare professionals create safer work environments.
鈥淥ur healthcare workers dedicate their lives to caring for others, and they deserve to feel safe while doing so,鈥� SaferCare Texas Director Justin Burton said. 鈥淏y taking proactive steps today, we can create a safer future for both caregivers and patients.鈥�
The guide and online course, 鈥淲orkplace Well-Being: Toolkit for Healthcare Professionals on Workplace Violence and De-escalation,鈥� offer healthcare professionals, administrators and frontline workers tools to improve workplace safety, ensure patient well-being and enhance care delivery.
The guide addresses violent incidents in healthcare settings鈥攔anging from verbal threats to physical assaults鈥攊n hospitals, clinics and emergency services. It defines workplace violence according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, outlines its types, emphasizes the role of de-escalation techniques in safety and mental health, and offers effective verbal and non-verbal strategies. It also analyzes contributing factors and evaluates training effectiveness through incident reports and staff feedback.
鈥淎ddressing workplace violence requires a proactive approach,鈥� said Dr. Teresa Hubka,
president of the association and a distinguished fellow of the American College of
Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 鈥淏y working alongside SaferCare Texas,
we are committed to delivering thorough best practices and instilling a culture of
workplace respect. Workplace violence is a pressing issue that demands our attention.鈥�
By combining the association鈥檚 national leadership in osteopathic medicine with SaferCare Texas鈥� expertise in patient safety, the initiative equips healthcare professionals with the necessary tools to navigate and mitigate workplace violence.
鈥淚n today鈥檚 evolving workplace, a comprehensive guide addressing workplace violence is both beneficial and essential,鈥� said Kathleen Creason, the association鈥檚 CEO. 鈥淭he path to a violence-free workplace begins with clear guidance and education. We are proud to collaborate with SaferCare Texas to create resources that empower organizations that want safer and more supportive work environments.鈥�
For more information or to register for the course, please visit .
From - Community by Nicole Luna