Challenge Tips

Violence against nurses is a disturbing and ongoing problem. According to our HealthyNurse® Survey, 35% of respondents have been verbally and/or physically threatened by a patient or patient’s family member. Thirty-one percent have experienced verbal or nonverbal aggression from a peer and 23% have experienced aggression from a person in a higher level of authority.  These stats are unacceptable.  

Bullying, hostility, and violence can cause nurses to suffer physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. In addition, workplace incivility can lead to burnout or cause nurses to leave the profession entirely. Nurses, employers, and other healthcare leaders must work together to combat this dangerous problem.  

ANA’s Incivility, Bullying, and Workplace Violence Position Statement explains that nurses and their employers working together are the foundation of an effective workplace violence prevention program, but your safety always starts with you. During this challenge, we’ll share a strategy each day you can use to prevent violence against yourself and other nurses and help build a safer, more respectful workplace.  

• Question the presence of unknown individuals in workplace and patient settings 
• Ask for help if you feel uncomfortable around a patient or visitors 
• Assess your surroundings for items that can be used as a weapon against you 
• Avoid facing your back to patients and visitors 
• Stay near a doorway, in case you need to make a quick exit  
• Be aware of all emergency exits at all times 
• Avoid isolated, dark areas 
• Have access to a panic button or a way to call for help in the event of an emergency 
• Request an escort to your car if in an unlit or unsafe parking area 

What types of safety precautions at work do you use? Share with us here or let us know in our discussion, in our Facebook group or reply to us on twitter.

Find this helpful? Use the social media links on the bottom or left side of your page to share it and join us on day 2.