WINCHESTER, June 7 — Today on National Hospitals Against Violence Day, Valley Health remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all caregivers, patients, and visitors. Violence in healthcare settings is a critical issue that affects not only the well-being of healthcare workers, but also the quality of patient care. As we observe this important day, we want to address the reality of hospital violence in the United States and outline the steps Valley Health is taking to ensure safety.
Facts about Hospital Violence in U.S.:
The American Hospital Association (AHA) reports that healthcare workers suffer more than workplace violence and injury than any other environment.
Since the pandemic, there has been a marked increase in violence against healthcare workers, with 44 percent of nurses reporting an increase in physical violence and 68 percent reporting an increase in verbal abuse.
Emergency departments are particularly affected with approximately 80 percent of physicians believing that violence has impacted patient care and safety.
This is unacceptable and we must work to eliminate all violent threats and intimidation against healthcare workers. No one serves in our ministry of care expecting to be threatened, intimidated and/or assaulted.
Our Steps to Ensure Employee Safety:
Risk Assessment: We are regularly identifying security risks and implementing measures to mitigate them.
Training: We offer crisis de-escalation training and are in the process of offering to all employees.
Safety & Health Management Systems: We have adopted comprehensive safety and health management systems to build a culture of safety and reduce injuries.
Physical Security Measures: We have increased on-site security personnel, surveillance, and emergency planning to respond promptly to any incidents. We have developed and communicated clear expectation for patients and families and zero tolerance for those who do not adhere to our expectations.
Care for the Caregiver: A particular focus for our Care for the Caregiver is supporting our team members who have been the victims of violence, threats, and intimidation. One-third of the Care for the Caregiver support has been for employees who have been victims of violence or threats.
As we reflect on the significance of Hospitals Against Violence Day, let us remember that safety is a collective responsibility. Each of us plays a vital role in fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and security. We encourage our staff to participate in training sessions designed to empower them with the knowledge and skills to maintain a safe workplace.
Valley Health appreciates our caregivers for their continued dedication to providing compassionate care while upholding the highest standards of safety. Together with our community, we can make a difference and ensure that Valley Health remains a place of hope and healing.
Valley Health is a not-for-profit health system serving a population of more than 500,000 in the Northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, the Eastern Panhandle and Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, and western Maryland. The system includes six hospitals, more than 70 medical practices and Urgent Care centers, outpatient rehabilitation, medical transport, long-term care, home health, and charitable foundations.
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