Better Measures Proposed for Preventing Violence against Hospital Staff
Given the fact that the latest statistics reveal hospital violence in Wales in the year 2007-2008 numbering to nearly 7,400, the South Wales Police and the National Health Service of Wales have decided to work together in addressing such cases and ensuring they are properly investigated.
Health Minister Edwina Hart, in a response to these figures, has passed a new plan of action, which involves enhanced procedures for investigating incidents, proper police referral methods, correct evidence gathering and statements procedures, post-incident review and finally supporting the sufferer if the case reaches court. Mrs Hart has in this context reiterated her resolve to remove all instances of violence in hospitals.
In addition, the current restructuring of NHS Wales requires all healthcare institutions to appoint their own Executive Directors and staff, who will be solely responsible for investigating and reporting cases of hospital violence in their respective institutions. Regular updates on such incidents will also be shared by all members in the Board meetings.
According to Ms Hart, the implementation of stricter procedures and the entire restructuring plan will go a long way in actually reducing such cases. Strict action against miscreants will help prevent others from following suit, and thus the conditions will improve for health care workers.
Given the fact that the NHS employees are just performing their regular duties, violent and aggressive behaviour against them is unacceptable and only adds to the existing tension of the health staff. Mrs Hart further said that cases of violence range from verbal abuse to physical attacks, all of which are unwelcome. Such irresponsible behaviour by a few errant individuals not only causes problems for employees but also affects other patients and visitors.
Hello
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Thank you.
Patricia B. (Nikki) Allen, MBA, RN
Principal, Allen Group Healthcare Consultants on ED Violence
Author, Violence in the Emergency Department: Tools and Strategies to Create a Violence- Free ED
Faculty, Emergency Nurses Association, Leadership Conference, Chicago, 2010
former Manager, Quality, Safety and Performance Improvement for the ED and leader, ED violence prevention initiative, HCA (Hospital Corporation of America)