Prevalence of workplace violence against nurses in psychiatric hospital in Medina region

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence, types, and contributing factors of workplace violence (WPV) against nurses in a psychiatric hospital in the Madinah region of Saudi Arabia, addressing a gap in local research on this critical occupational hazard. A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized, with data collected from 150 psychiatric nurses between November 1 and November 30, 2024, using the validated Workplace Violence in the Health Sector (WPVHS) questionnaire. The survey measured experiences of verbal and physical violence over the preceding 12 months, and data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to determine prevalence rates and examine correlations with demographic and workplace factors. Results indicated that 70.7% of nurses reported experiencing verbal abuse, and 54.7% experienced physical assault during their professional duties. Workplace violence is highly prevalent among psychiatric nurses in the Madinah region, posing substantial psychological and professional challenges. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions and robust reporting and support mechanisms. Healthcare institutions should therefore develop comprehensive policies to prevent WPV, implement regular staff training programs, and provide accessible psychological support for affected nurses, as these measures may enhance nurse safety, reduce staff turnover, and improve care quality in psychiatric settings.