The growing crisis of violence in healthcare and how to stop it   

Healthcare should be a place of healing, not harm. Yet for too many doctors, nurses and caregivers, violence has become a disturbing part of the job. From verbal threats to physical assaults, incidents are rising across hospitals, clinics and long-term care settings to put both workers and patients at risk.  

What is Workplace Violence in Healthcare 

Workplace violence in healthcare — defined as any act or threat of physical or verbal harm toward healthcare professionals — creates a staggering human and financial cost: 

• Nearly 4 in 10 healthcare workers say they’ve experienced violence on the job in just the past two years, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.  

• The American Hospital Association estimates that violence against healthcare workers costs hospitals over $18 billion annually in medical expenses, lost productivity, and recovery costs. 

• A 2023 National Nurses United survey found that over 80% of nurses experienced at least one violent incident in the past year, and nearly 60% considered leaving their job because of it.  

These healthcare worker violence statistics reveal just how common workplace violence in healthcare has become. 

“State regulations around workplace violence prevention continue to expand,” says Bailey Whitsitt, Compliance Counsel at Traliant. “Regardless of location, employers have a general duty to safeguard their employees from known risks.” 

Why healthcare is at high risk 

Healthcare workers face unique daily risks that contribute to violence against healthcare workers and patient aggression in hospitals. 

• High-stress environments: Patients may be in pain, under stress or affected by mental health conditions or substance use, all of which can heighten aggression and lead to healthcare worker assault. 

• Challenging schedules: Many staff work nights or alone, where backup and visibility are limited. These are key risk factors for workplace violence in healthcare. 

• Cultural norms: Some still accept violence as “part of the job,” which discourages reporting violence in healthcare and prevents systemic improvement. 

The impact is far-reaching. Workplace violence leads to injuries, burnout, turnover and reputational harm. These risks undermine not only safety but also morale, retention and quality of care.  

States leading the way: How regulations are shaping healthcare safety 

Across the country, states are stepping up with new laws that make violence prevention a core part of healthcare operations. These laws require hospitals and clinics to have clear, actionable plans to protect workers from assault and aggression. 

California set the benchmark with its Title 8 CCR 3342 regulation, which has been in place since 2018. It requires employers to: 

• Maintain a written violence prevention plan 
• Conduct regular hazard assessments 
• Track all incidents in a violence log 
• Provide annual training and periodic plan reviews 

This model has inspired other states, including Arizona, Louisiana, Minnesota and Texas, to adopt similar measures, signaling nationwide momentum. 

Even if your state hasn’t enacted a law yet, taking proactive steps now will ensure your organization is ahead of the curve by not just meeting compliance standards, but also strengthening safety, morale, and patient care.  

Moving From compliance to culture 

Following the law is just the starting point. True safety transformation happens when violence prevention becomes part of daily operations, not treated as a one-time compliance task. 

Start with data but listen to people. Reviewing incident logs and trends helps identify high-risk areas or shifts, but the most effective programs involve frontline staff, including nurses, aides and transport teams, who often recognize early warning signs. Including their input ensures prevention efforts reflect real-world challenges. 

Go beyond check-the-box training. Practical, role-based programs give staff tools to de-escalate situations and protect themselves. Incorporating workplace violence training programs that include simulations, drills and after-action reviews builds confidence and coordination during real emergencies. 

Support recovery. Violence leaves both physical and emotional scars. “Providing counseling, EAP access and peer support demonstrates your commitment to healthcare staff safety and wellbeing. 

Invest in security. Improving security in healthcare settings through updated hospital security measures is another key step in preventing violence in hospitals. Duress alarms, controlled access, improved lighting and camera systems enhance safety and response times.  

Track and share progress. Regularly report outcomes to leadership, celebrate improvements and keep safety visible as a business priority. These efforts are essential components of making violence reduction strategies in healthcare a part of an organization’s identity.  

How to prevent workplace violence in healthcare 

Healthcare workers deserve protection. By acting now, healthcare organizations can reduce risk, retain staff and create safer environments for everyone.  

Take these steps today to help your organization prevent workplace violence and foster a safer culture for everyone: 

• Assess your current program. Identify gaps in policy, training and reporting. 

• Update your written plan. Tailor it to each department’s risks and ensure accessibility. 

• Review your reporting system. Ensure all incidents are logged, analyzed and used for improvement. 

• Form or refresh your prevention committee. Include diverse perspectives across departments. 

• Evaluate your physical environment. Check alarms, lighting and security layouts. 

• Communicate clearly. Reinforce that violence is never “part of the job.” 

• Monitor progress annually. Adjust for new risks and lessons learned. 

• Leverage expert training. Partner with professionals for engaging, compliant programs. 

• Stay informed. Track emerging state laws and OSHA’s proposed federal standard.