Understanding Workplace Violence in Healthcare: Insights from Kim Urbanek
In a recent episode of the “Security Heroes” podcast, host Lisa Falzone welcomed Kim Urbanek, a seasoned expert in workplace violence prevention within the healthcare sector. With decades of experience, Kim shared her insights on the alarming prevalence of violence in healthcare settings and the critical need for effective prevention strategies.
The Landscape of Workplace Violence
Kim highlighted that the primary source of workplace violence in healthcare is often patient-generated, with incidents frequently arising from patients or their family members. Factors contributing to these violent outbursts can include disagreements over treatment plans, the stress of medical situations, and sometimes, the influence of substances.
Despite the common assumption that behavioral health patients are the main culprits, Kim emphasized the need for more comprehensive data collection to understand the true underlying causes of these incidents. She advocates for hospitals to implement systematic data collection methods to better identify and address the root causes of violence.
The Role of Domestic Violence
A significant portion of workplace violence also stems from domestic violence issues that spill over into the workplace. Kim pointed out that healthcare environments, which are predominantly staffed by women, are particularly vulnerable to this type of violence. Statistics reveal that one in three women has experienced serious physical violence from an intimate partner, making it imperative for healthcare organizations to recognize and address domestic violence as a critical workplace safety issue.
Kim passionately argued that many healthcare facilities lack adequate policies to support staff who may be experiencing domestic violence. She stressed the importance of creating a safe space for employees to disclose their situations without fear of retaliation.
Strategies for Prevention
To combat workplace violence, Kim recommends several proactive strategies:
- Data Collection and Analysis: Hospitals should prioritize collecting and analyzing data related to workplace violence incidents. This will help identify patterns and inform prevention strategies.
- Training and Awareness: Staff training should include education on recognizing signs of potential violence and understanding the dynamics of domestic violence. This training can empower employees to respond appropriately and seek help when needed.
- Policy Development: Organizations must develop clear, standalone policies addressing domestic violence and workplace violence. These policies should ensure confidentiality and provide clear procedures for reporting incidents.
- Creating a Supportive Environment: Establishing a culture of support where employees feel safe to disclose personal issues is crucial. This includes having resources readily available for those affected by domestic violence.
Conclusion
Kim Urbanek’s insights shed light on the urgent need for healthcare organizations to address workplace violence comprehensively. By implementing robust data collection, training, and supportive policies, healthcare facilities can create safer environments for both staff and patients. As Kim aptly noted, understanding the neuroscience behind violence and fostering self-awareness among staff can significantly contribute to preventing these incidents.
For those interested in further exploring this topic, Kim has authored the “Workplace Violence Prevention Workbook,” which offers practical guidance for developing effective violence prevention programs.
This blog post encapsulates the key points from the podcast discussion, emphasizing the importance of addressing workplace violence in healthcare settings through informed strategies and supportive policies.