Objective:: to reflect on the consequences of workplace violence experienced by nursing professionals.
Methods:: this is a reflection paper based on recent publications related to the subject, particularly researches carried out in Brazil and in other countries.
Results:: exposure to workplace violence has been associated with health problems in nursing professionals, which may be physical damage, emotional manifestations, and psychic disorders. It also affects the employee performance, his or her family and social interactions.
Conclusion:: this phenomenon is potentially noxious and costly, for it leads to suffering, illness, absence from work, and even death. This reflection calls attention moreover to the importance of a safe and adequate health care work environment.