Workplace Violence against HealthCare workers by Patients and Visitors in King Khalid University Hospital Riyadh Saudi Arabia 2021-2022

Abstract

Background: Violence against healthcare workers has increased globally. Poor productivity and patient care could result from this aggression against healthcare professionals. Methods: In this retrospective study, the target population was all healthcare workers who activated the white code (n=242) with a sample size (of n=149). A self-administered questionnaire was used and given to participants. Descriptive statistics were presented, and statistical comparisons were made to evaluate differences by gender, age, experience, and other demographic variables. Results: The prevalence of white code among all codes announced in King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, between the 1st of January 2021 and the 31st of December 2021 is 17%. Females, younger respondents, nurses, and less experienced personnel were the majority exposed to violent episodes compared to their counterparts. Male patients were the primary sources of workplace violence against healthcare workers (59.1%). Most violent acts are performed by individuals over 40, and approximately (51%) of violent behavior is attributed to chronically ill individuals. Verbal violence was the highest type of violence experienced, and the mostcommon violence incident occurred in the wards (Patient Bedside). The most common reason for the violence was poor communication (26.2%). Respondents believe that the presence of violence in the workplace is part of the risk of their job (47.7%). Conclusion: Frequently, healthcare workers suffer from violence against them. The majority is verbal. These results highlight the need for a thorough approach to managing and preventing workplace violence in healthcare facilities. Additionally, there is a pressing need to raise public awareness about the critical role that healthcare workers play in ensuring the continuity of healthcare services. Keywords: healthcare worker; health care professionals; white code; violence; workplace violence.