J Korean Acad Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs.  2011 Sep;20(3):291-301. 10.12934/jkpmhn.2011.20.3.291.

Exposure to Workplace Violence and Coping in Intensive Care Unit Nurses

• Park HJ
• Kang HS
• Kim KH
• Kwon HJ

• KMID: 2321917
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12934/jkpmhn.2011.20.3.291

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to examine workplace violence (verbal, physical, and sexual violence) among nurses in intensive care units (ICU).
METHODS
This cross-sectional survey was done from November 8 to 27, 2010, using self-administered questionnaires. The responses of 251 nurses were analyzed.
RESULTS
The results of this study showed that ICU nurses frequently experience workplace violence. Verbal violence was more frequent than physical or sexual violence. The most frequent action taken by respondents after violence was seeking help from colleagues. Violence occurred most often when a patient's mental status was altered or the patient had too much alcohol, and when the patient or family was not satisfied with the hospital services because of delay of test results or treatment. In addition, miscommunication between doctors and nurses or among nurses was a major reason for violent behavior. Nurses regarded public apologies, professional counseling, and communication skill training as effective methods to prevent or deal with violence.
CONCLUSION
These results suggest that institutional and administrative support to promote a safe and efficient work environment in hospitals should be provided to minimize the possibilities of violent behavior by patients or patients' families directed at medical personnel.

Keyword

Nurse; Intensive care units; Violence

MeSH Terms

Counseling
Cross-Sectional Studies
Surveys and Questionnaires
Humans
Intensive Care Units*
Sex Offenses
Violence
Workplace Violence*

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