The impact of violence on emergency department staff

Abstract

The impact of violence on the carers has yet to be clearly defined and explored. Research has shown that there is significant under-reporting of violence against emergency department personnel.There exist published reports of serious injury or death to staff due to violence occurring in the emergency department. Physical violence occurs in about 50% of violent incidents. The occurrence of threats, assault not resulting in injury, and the psychological impact of such violence need further examination. The part workplace violence has to play in occupational stress and 'burnout' are all issues yet to be comprehensively studied and reported.One study has shown a significant reduction in assault and injury in staff trained in aggression control techniques. Further evaluation of aggression control training and psychological debriefing are needed to determine the effect of such measures on the incidence of violence and its sequelae on care givers.Only when there is further research to determine the physical, emotional and financial impact on the carer can the cost of violent events be defined and give financial justification to employers for investing in measures aimed at reducing the impact of these events on the carer.