Workplace violence among healthcare workers in Nigeria: A systematic review.

Abstract

Background: Although violence occurs among workers in different fields, it is important to note that workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers is a major risk to public health and a global concern that has serious consequences for both healthcare workers and patients. It is recorded that workers in the healthcare industry are five times more likely to record injuries compared to workers in other industries. More so, it is revealed that WPV is the leading cause of death among workers worldwide which includes healthcare workers-1.5 million workers have been recorded dead annually due to WPV. Hence, this study aims to explore the factors that affect WPV among healthcare workers in Nigeria.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted to explore the factors that affect WPV among healthcare workers in Nigeria. Literature was searched from four databases using clearly outlined criteria for inclusion and exclusion and a total of 9 articles were sourced and appraised.

Results: The study recorded that the prevalence of WPV among healthcare workers is high. It also revealed that there are different types of violence being experienced by healthcare workers ranging from physical, sexual, and verbal abuse-with verbal abuse being most predominant. There are several factors that affect WPV, and these are inclusive of long working hours, miscommunication, attitude of healthcare workers and shortage of healthcare supplies. Furthermore, the study revealed that workplace violence impacts job satisfaction and job productivity among healthcare workers.

Conclusion: This study therefore concludes that the high prevalence of workplace violence influenced by several factors should be mitigated to reduce the burden of violence on healthcare workers and improve healthcare services to patients and subsequent increase job satisfaction among healthcare workers.