An appraisal of nurses' awareness and response to workplace violence in Abia State University Teaching Hospital
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Workplace violence (WPV) in healthcare settings is a serious concern worldwide, affecting the well-being of healthcare workers and the quality of patient care. WPV in healthcare can take many forms, including physical assault, verbal abuse, threats, and emotional harassment. Nurses are particularly vulnerable to workplace violence due to the nature of their work, which often involves close interaction with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals (Sani et al., 2023). The incidence of WPV in Nigerian healthcare facilities, including Abia State University Teaching Hospital, has been reported to be alarmingly high, with nurses facing increased rates of verbal and physical aggression, especially in emergency and psychiatric care units (Adebayo et al., 2024).
The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined workplace violence as any act of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse directed at employees in the workplace (WHO, 2024). The consequences of WPV for nurses include physical injury, psychological trauma, decreased job satisfaction, burnout, and even the decision to leave the profession. Moreover, workplace violence can negatively affect patient care, as stressed or injured nurses may be less effective in their duties (Eze et al., 2024). Despite the high prevalence of WPV, many healthcare institutions in Nigeria, including Abia State University Teaching Hospital, lack comprehensive protocols for managing and preventing such violence (Ugwu et al., 2023).
Nurses' awareness of WPV and their response to it play a crucial role in mitigating its impact. Awareness includes understanding the different forms of violence, recognizing potential risk factors, and knowing the appropriate responses. Effective responses can include de-escalation techniques, reporting mechanisms, and institutional support structures such as counseling services (Ike et al., 2023). However, research suggests that nurses in many Nigerian hospitals may not be adequately trained to respond to workplace violence, and in some cases, they may not recognize certain behaviors as violent (Olabode et al., 2024). This study aims to assess the level of awareness of workplace violence among nurses at Abia State University Teaching Hospital and evaluate their response mechanisms to incidents of violence.
Statement of the Problem
Workplace violence in healthcare settings is a growing concern, and nurses at Abia State University Teaching Hospital are frequently exposed to various forms of violence, including verbal abuse and physical assault. Despite the increasing recognition of WPV as a serious occupational hazard, there is limited research on the awareness and response of nurses to workplace violence at this institution. The lack of effective response strategies and preventive measures may lead to negative physical, emotional, and professional consequences for nurses, ultimately affecting the quality of patient care. This study seeks to investigate the awareness of workplace violence among nurses at Abia State University Teaching Hospital and their preparedness to respond effectively to such incidents.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess nurses' awareness of workplace violence in Abia State University Teaching Hospital.
- To evaluate the response mechanisms of nurses to workplace violence in the hospital.
- To identify factors that influence nurses' ability to effectively respond to workplace violence at Abia State University Teaching Hospital.
Research Questions
- What is the level of awareness of workplace violence among nurses at Abia State University Teaching Hospital?
- How do nurses at Abia State University Teaching Hospital respond to incidents of workplace violence?
- What factors affect nurses' ability to effectively respond to workplace violence in Abia State University Teaching Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
- There is a significant relationship between nurses' awareness of workplace violence and their response effectiveness.
- Nurses at Abia State University Teaching Hospital experience high levels of workplace violence, but their response mechanisms are inadequate.
- There are significant barriers to nurses' ability to respond effectively to workplace violence at Abia State University Teaching Hospital.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses employed at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, evaluating their awareness and response to workplace violence. The study will not include other healthcare professionals such as doctors, administrative staff, or security personnel, although they may also play a role in addressing WPV.
A limitation of this study is that it will rely on self-reported data, which could be influenced by social desirability bias. Furthermore, the study will be cross-sectional, capturing data at one point in time, which may not reflect the long-term changes in nurses' awareness or the impact of institutional interventions.
Definitions of Terms
- Workplace Violence: Any act of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse directed at employees in the workplace, including threats, intimidation, and physical harm.
- Awareness: The level of knowledge and recognition of workplace violence, its impact, and the appropriate response strategies.
- Response Mechanisms: The actions and strategies employed by nurses to address and manage incidents of workplace violence.
Related Project Materials
An Analysis of the Effect of Inflation on Stock Prices in Nigeria: Evidence from Lagos Stock Market
Background of the Study
Inflation is a critical macroeconomic factor that influences financial markets, particularly sto...
The impact of vocational education on improving youth participation in agricultural entrepreneurship in Lavun Local Government Area, Niger State
Background of the Study
In recent years, the nexus between vocational education and agricultural entrepreneurship has emer...
An investigation into students' attitudes towards mathematics in STEM education in Suleja LGA, Niger State
Background of the Study
Students’ attitudes towards mathematics are pivotal in shaping their overall performanc...
Impact of Budgetary Control on SME Financial Performance in Lafia LGA
Background of the Study
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are critical to the econom...
An appraisal of digital transformation’s impact on economic performance in Nigeria: A study of ICT sectors in Lagos State (2010–2020)
Background of the Study :
Digital transformation has emerged as a transformative force in modern economies, reshaping industries and driv...
Enhancing University Administrative Efficiency Using Big Data Analytics in Gombe State University, Gombe State
Background of the Study
University administrative efficiency is critical to ensuring smooth operations and optimal resourc...
DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A COMPUTERIZED VISITOR'S MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
ABSTRACT
In this computer technology world the impact of IT contributes major roles in all real time system. Various management systems i...
An evaluation of the accessibility of banking services on financial inclusion: a case study of First City Monument Bank
Background of the Study
Accessibility to banking services is a cornerstone of financial inclusion, particularly in emerging...
An investigation of internal enforcement measures on curbing operational fraud in banking: a case study of Guaranty Trust Bank
Background of the Study
Operational fraud remains a persistent threat in the banking sector, prompting institutions to ado...
The Effect of IFRS on Business Continuity Planning in Nigerian Firms
Background of the Study
Business continuity planning (BCP) is a critical component for organizations, e...
