Journal of emergency nursing : JEN : official publication of the Emergency Department Nurses Association
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Emergency departments are extremely vulnerable to workplace violence, and emergency nurses are frequently exposed to workplace violence. We developed workplace violence prediction models using machine learning methods based on data from electronic health records. ⋯ This study showed that workplace violence could be predicted with previous data regarding ED visits and stays documented in electronic health records. Timely prediction and mitigation of workplace violence could improve the safety of emergency nurses and the quality of nursing care. To prevent workplace violence, emergency nurses must recognize and continuously observe the risk factors for workplace violence from admission to discharge.
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Workplace violence remains a significant threat to the United States health care workforce. With increasingly aggressive patients, emergency nurses reported that the increased prevalence of workplace violence impacted their professional and personal lives. ⋯ Our findings were consistent with other studies exploring the effects of workplace violence in emergency departments. We validated that trauma has long-lasting effects. Organizations should ensure that programs and processes are in place to support the nurse or health care worker when workplace violence events occur.
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Older adults may suddenly exhibit behaviors that are viewed as noncompliant, noncooperative, and threatening. They may even lash out verbally and physically causing injury to health care staff. In addition to taking actions that prevent harm to the staff and the patient, determining what caused this behavior (dementia vs delirium or other cases) will be critical, as well as debriefing the staff after the incident.
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Workplace violence is a growing concern among health care workers, especially staff working in emergency departments. Emergency department leaders have oversight accountability that includes mitigation of workplace violence risks and staff education related to workplace violence prevention. ⋯ Improving safety for staff, patients, and visitors requires a culture focused on safety. A summary of current regulations, standards, and resources available to date is provided, including a list of mitigation strategies that can be easily translated into practice by emergency nurse leaders.
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Harassment in the workplace has become all too common in today's society. Acts of uncivil behavior and bullying create stressful and difficult working environments. ⋯ Fear of speaking up owing to retaliation allows the uncivil behavior to continue. Emergency nurses should take action to stop the behavior and may need to seek professional help for mental health care.