Date
2-23-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Human Services
Abstract
Workplace violence is an issue that while not unique to a healthcare setting, is certainly more prevalent. Even more disturbing is that many instances of workplace violence go unreported. Identifying and implementing evidenced based approaches that seek to ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare workers and patients is no small task. Healthcare organizations are faced with the dilemma of protecting and advocating for the safety of their staff against acts of workplace violence, while also providing necessary care for patients who may be violent or disruptive. Properly managing these behaviors requires a thoughtful and thorough approach that recognizes the diverse backgrounds, experiences and circumstances presented by patients. Overcoming deeply rooted stigmas and perceptions of workplace violence should be a top priority for any healthcare organization that seeks to create a safe and welcoming care environment. Through collaborative efforts and evidence-based approaches such as the thought-behavior link model as a basis for assessing behavior; healthcare organizations can create a culture that better understand and manage threatening and disruptive behavior and empowers healthcare workers.