Safeguarding Healthcare’s Front Line: Why Rising Workplace Violence Demands Systemic Change  

Patient Safety & Quality Healthcare ─ In a new byline article, “Safeguarding Healthcare’s Front Line: Why Rising Workplace Violence Demands Systemic Change,” Bailey Whitsitt, Compliance Counsel at Traliant, examines the growing crisis of violence in healthcare settings and why piecemeal fixes are no longer enough. Frontline professionals, from nurses and physicians to emergency staff, are increasingly exposed to verbal and physical aggression, often at the expense of their safety and well-being. 

Whitsitt highlights how cultural norms, policy gaps and uneven training continue to put healthcare workers at risk. Despite rising awareness, many staff still fear retaliation for reporting incidents, while others lack confidence in their ability to de-escalate threats — especially younger employees.  

“We can’t treat violence as an inevitable part of healthcare,” Whitsitt says. “Protecting staff requires a systemic shift that embeds safety, respect and accountability into every level of the organization.”

 Whitsitt calls for stronger legislation, comprehensive prevention plans, and ongoing, scenario-based training tailored to healthcare realities. When leaders model safety commitments, ensure anonymous reporting and provide visible follow-through, trust and engagement grow across the workforce. 

Whitsitt also stresses the importance of supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of healthcare professionals. Beyond physical protections, organizations must offer access to counseling, peer support and burnout prevention programs to help staff recover and thrive after incidents.  

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