Emergency Department Nurses' Perceptions of Workplace Violence

Abstract

<p>Violence in the workplace has become increasingly more prevalent in emergency departments (ED) and can have negative impacts on nurses who are subjected to violence while at work. Workplace violence (WPV) may occur when a patient, family member or co-worker becomes violent or threatening (Roche, Diers, Duffield & CatlingPaull, 2009). By reporting violent acts, researchers can help create changes within an institution in order to improve the overall safety of ED nurses. This study will explore the perceptions of ED nurses regarding workplace violence. The following lead research questions were derived from the specific aim: (1) What does the nurse working in an ED setting perceive as WPV? (2) What does the nurse do if she becomes a victim of WPV? This study is qualitative, inductive and will employ the grounded theory approach. Corbin and Strauss (1998) will provide the framework for the study. Sampling will be convenience and recruitment will be through the use of flyers posted in designated areas near the emergency departments. A sample size of 40 participants is planned, however, sampling will continue until saturation is achieved. Participants will be interviewed by the researcher at a location where both individuals feel safe. The interviews will be semi-structured with open-ended questions from an Interview Guide developed by the principal investigator. Demographic data will also be collected. Descriptive statistics will be used to describe participants and constant comparative method analysis, category scheming, and coding will be used into analyze the qualitative data. The effects of this phenomenon can be devastating both mentally and physically. This proposed research project would provide data that can be used to assist with the eradication of WPV.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 8, 2011</p>