Addressing Workplace Violence in Indian Hospitals

Work Place Violence is a complex and dangerous occupational hazard and is recognised as a broad concept, as violence can be of a physical or psychological nature. At highest risk are healthcare workers. Violence against healthcare workers is a multifactorial problem. This essay aims at exploring the relationship of the perpetrator of violence with the HCW and its repercussions on the individual, the organisation and the nation, with an aim to develop a conceptual framework linking aetiology and prevention. Concepts such as resource allocation, performance management, safety within workplace, communication, organisation culture and leadership will be discussed. This conceptual model will then be used as a guide to design intervention strategies based on empirical evaluation and document an effective plan to stem the tide of violence against medical practitioners.

This essay will therefore discuss the impacts and implications of workplace violence in a healthcare setting, conceptualise the identified problems and make strategic recommendations for the same.