Workplace violence in healthcare is a growing concern. It’s not just a matter of safety—it’s an issue that affects the entire organization. Many healthcare providers struggle to address the problem consistently across different shifts and locations.
At Adventist HealthCare, preventing workplace violence is becoming a top priority, led by executives. This shift shows that leadership is taking this issue seriously, moving beyond just awareness to a coordinated action plan.
Patsy McNeil, MD, MBA, a leader at Adventist, has firsthand experience with workplace violence from her time as an emergency physician. She emphasizes the need for a systematic approach. “We can’t treat incidents differently between day and night shifts. Consistency is key to making significant changes,” McNeil says.
The health system utilizes various tools to combat workplace violence, including technology like weapons detection systems and comprehensive staff training. Training helps team members manage potentially violent situations effectively. McNeil highlights the importance of this training, stating, “Our staff learns to de-escalate situations before they become serious, ensuring safety for everyone involved.”
Security personnel also receive specialized training, ensuring they understand regulations and can protect their team safely. This intentional approach is necessary, given the challenges they face. Data from recent surveys suggest that 44% of nurses have experienced workplace violence, making safety training even more vital.
Adventist has set up a structure to manage workplace violence initiatives. They often pilot new strategies at a single location and, if successful, expand them system-wide. Each incident is thoroughly logged and reviewed to ensure continual improvement. For example, when a serious incident occurs, a “Code Green” is called, and security responds. A “Code Bronze” brings leadership directly to the scene, reinforcing accountability and support.
Innovation is also an essential part of Adventist’s strategy. One unique offering is a forensic medical unit staffed by trained nurses. They support team members who have faced violence, providing medical care, documentation, and emotional support. This wraparound care helps employees feel supported and ensures their wellbeing after a traumatic incident.
Additionally, Adventist encourages a culture of reporting through an internal webinar called Stand Strong. This platform raises awareness about the prevalence of violence in healthcare and emphasizes the importance of addressing it head-on.
As the conversation around workplace violence in healthcare continues, understanding and addressing this issue becomes crucial for maintaining a safe environment for both patients and staff. With each step forward, organizations like Adventist HealthCare are setting benchmarks for making healthcare settings safer.
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accountability, innovation, leadership, training, workplace violence
