A study on perceptions of Doctors on violence againsthealthcare workers in India

Abstract

Background According to a study by the Indian Medical Association over 75 of doctors have faced violence at work. These attacks have impact on the psychological and physical well-being of healthcare staff. As a consequence this violence compromises the quality of care and puts health-care provision at risk. Objective To understand the perceptions of doctors on causes and the prevention of violence against healthcare workers.Methodology 30 In depth interviews were conducted with residents of a Government medical college in Karnataka. Atlasti 7.0 trial version was used.Results Illiteracy lack of trust on treating doctors emotional aspects lack of communication skills negligence inadequately trained staff and administrative issues were reflected as main causes ofviolence in the current study. Adequate staff capacity building and rectifying administrative lacunae s were the steps suggested to curtail such violence in the institution.Conclusion Every healthcare institution must setup their own policy for prevention of violence and appoint a committee to review the incidents periodically