Abstract
Background: Workplace violence against healthcare professionals is a growing occupational health concern, particularly in emergency departments where high patient volumes, emotional distress, and unpredictable clinical situations increase staff vulnerability.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, types, sources, frequency, and reporting practices of workplace violence among healthcare professionals working in the Emergency Department of King Abdullah Teaching Hospital (KATH), Mansehra.
Methods: A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 healthcare professionals, including nurses, physicians, and support staff, working in the emergency department of KATH. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographic characteristics and workplace violence-related variables.
Results: Overall, 65% of participants reported experiencing at least one incident of workplace violence during the six months preceding data collection. Verbal abuse was the most frequently reported form of violence (50%), followed by threats or intimidation (16.7%), physical violence (12.5%), and sexual harassment (2.5%). Relatives of patients were identified as the primary perpetrators (37.5%). Despite the high prevalence, only 23.3% of participants formally reported violent incidents.
Conclusion: Workplace violence is highly prevalent among emergency department healthcare professionals at KATH, with verbal abuse being the dominant form and underreporting a major concern. Strengthening institutional prevention strategies, reporting mechanisms, and staff support systems is essential to improve workplace safety.