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776 Preventing Workplace Violence in Healthcare
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Safety and Health Training

Training and education ensure all staff are aware of potential security hazards and how to protect themselves and their coworkers through established policies and procedures.

Image of an employee being trained
Frequent training is important to reduce the likelihood of being assaulted.

Training for All Employees

Every employee should understand the concept of "universal precautions for violence" which states that violence should be expected but can be avoided or mitigated through preparation. Frequent training also can reduce the likelihood of being assaulted.

Employees who may face safety and security hazards should receive formal instruction on the specific hazards associated with the unit or job and facility. This includes information on the types of injuries or problems identified in the facility and the methods to control the specific hazards. It also includes instructions to limit physical interventions in workplace altercations whenever possible, unless enough staff or emergency response teams and security personnel are available. In addition, all employees should be trained to behave compassionately toward coworkers when an incident occurs.

The training program should involve all employees, including supervisors and managers.

New and reassigned employees should receive an initial orientation before being assigned their job duties. Visiting staff, such as physicians, should receive the same training as permanent staff. Qualified trainers should instruct at the comprehension level appropriate for the staff. Effective training programs should involve role playing, simulations and drills.

Employees should receive required training annually. In large institutions, refresher programs may be needed more frequently, perhaps monthly or quarterly, to effectively reach and inform all employees.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-1. What does the concept of "universal precautions for violence" mean?