Many business risks come with running your own practice. Besides the usual compliance laws, employee relations, or insurance challenges, we must also consider the safety of NP practices. Of all nonfatal injuries or illnesses occurring in the workplace, 73% of incidents involve healthcare workers. Up to 38% of nurses specifically are a victim of healthcare violence at some point during their career, and incident numbers have only risen since the pandemic. As you strive to ensure your practice is as safe as possible for your patients and staff, consider these elements within your strategy.
Violence Prevention: Strategies Every NP Should Know
First, everyone at the practice must be aware of the risks associated with working with certain patient populations, especially in a specialized practice. For example, treating patients dealing with substance use or those experiencing a disordered state can increase the potential for violent incidents, particularly in high-stress situations.
While numerous factors lead to a violent incident, there are general preventative and de-escalation techniques you and your staff can implement.
Spot Trouble Early
A patient’s behavior will show the first warning signs of aggression. Clenched fists, stomping, or arguing with raised voices could soon escalate. Listen for derogatory comments or verbal threats, as these will only create a tense environment for everyone involved.
Calm Under Pressure
If a patient is showing any warning signs of potential violence, NPs and their staff must try to stay calm and professional. Matching a patient’s aggressive energy will only reinforce their anger and heighten the risk of violence.
While communicating with the patient, try creating space between you and them. The patient may try invading personal space as an intimidation tactic, so healthcare workers must stand firm and communicate clear boundaries.
Although these situations are frightening, NPs must remember that patients are looking for a solution, albeit inappropriately. On top of staying calm, try communicating with empathy and offer possible solutions so the patients understand what potential next steps to take. By giving these patients a choice, they can feel more in control of their situation, thereby reducing the tension.
Stay Safe in the Worst-Case Scenario
Unfortunately, NPs must also prepare for the worst-case scenarios. De-escalation techniques are not fool-proof, and some patients might be beyond assistance. In these cases, healthcare staff must prioritize their physical safety and call for security or law enforcement.
Until security is available, move away as far as possible to create a safe distance or exit the building if necessary. If other patients are near the incident, attempt to guide them to a safe distance or exit. If an exit is unavailable, create a physical barrier until help has arrived.
Protect Mental Health: Beat Burnout and Stress
When verbal aggression and physical violence are prevalent in the workplace, the safety of NP practices becomes even more critical as this can lead to a high risk of experiencing burnout and mental health challenges. The constant stress of anticipating or experiencing these incidents takes a heavy toll on both mental health and emotional well-being.
For staff members affected by workplace violence or the ongoing stress of its potential occurrence, it’s crucial to have robust mental health resources in place to provide the necessary support. These resources should be comprehensive and easily accessible, ensuring that all staff members feel empowered to seek help when needed.
Key Mental Health Resources for Your Practice:
- Support Groups for healthcare workers can share their experiences, discuss coping strategies, and offer mutual support.
- Wellness Counseling aids in stress management, resilience building, and emotional well-being.
- Personal Counselors supply healthcare workers with individualized support.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) provide confidential counseling, crisis intervention, or referrals to external mental health providers.
- Crisis Intervention Services deliver on-site counselors or hotlines after a violent incident.
Prioritize Safety for a Thriving Practice
Ensuring the safety of NP practices and the well-being of staff and patients is paramount. Ultimately, a proactive approach to safety not only protects your team but also enhances the overall quality of care provided to your patients.
