Editorial: Workplace violence in healthcare: prevention strategies and mental health consequences
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By
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Christian Schulz-Quach
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C. J. Cabilan
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Sanjeev Sockalingam
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July 2, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Addressing Workplace Violence in Healthcare: Strategies for Prevention and Impact on Mental Health
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Workplace Violence in Healthcare |
| Key Mechanisms | Psychological sequelae including sleep disruption, depression, and suicidal thoughts linked to workplace violence. |
| Target Population | Healthcare workers across various settings. |
| Care Setting | Healthcare environments experiencing workplace violence. |
Key Highlights
- 6 in 10 healthcare workers are exposed to workplace violence.
- Psychological violence is a strong predictor of sleep disorders.
- Workplace violence negatively impacts professional commitment and identity in nursing students.
- Transformational leadership can mitigate the effects of workplace violence.
- Workplace violence is a systemic issue affecting recruitment and retention.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess psychological impacts of workplace violence on healthcare workers.
Management
- Implement prevention strategies focused on mental health outcomes.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Track incidents of workplace violence and associated psychological effects.
Risks
- Recognize the risk of increased turnover intention and decreased professional commitment due to workplace violence.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Healthcare workers exposed to workplace violence.
Early identification and treatment of post-event psychiatric morbidities are crucial.
Clinical Best Practices
- Integrate mental health care into workplace violence prevention programs.
- Foster a supportive organizational culture to reduce workplace violence.
- Encourage continuous professional development as a protective measure.
Related Resources & Content
