Evaluating a Workplace Violence Management Program and Nurses' Confidence in Coping With Patient Aggression

J Nurs Adm. 2024 Mar 1;54(3):160-166. doi: 10.1097/NNA.0000000000001402.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate nurse confidence in coping with patient aggression after implementing a workplace violence prevention program that includes management and postevent support.

Background: Patient aggression toward nurses is increasing, leading many healthcare organizations to develop workplace violence prevention programs.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a large healthcare system in the Midwestern United States. Clinical nurses caring for adult patients across the care continuum ≥51% of the time were invited to participate.

Results: In situ simulation plus standard training did not have a significant impact on confidence after controlling for the year education occurred; however, nurses completing training in 2022 had significantly higher confidence than nurses completing training in 2019. Use of the Violence Assessment Tool and participating in a post-control alert debriefing were also associated with significantly higher confidence.

Conclusion: Factors other than education may influence nurses' confidence in coping with patient aggression.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aggression
  • Coping Skills
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Nurses*
  • Workplace
  • Workplace Violence* / prevention & control