Perpetrator, worker and workplace characteristics associated with patient and visitor perpetrated violence (Type II) on hospital workers: A review of the literature and existing occupational injury data

ProblemNon-fatal type II violence experienced by hospital workers (patient/visitor-on-worker violence) is not well described.MethodsHospital administration data (2004-2009) were examined for purposes of calculating rates of type II violent events experienced by workers. We also conducted a review of the hospital-based literature (2000-2010) and summarized findings associated with type II violence.Results484 physical assaults were identified in the data, with a rate of 1.75 events/100 full-time equivalents. Only few details about events were captured, while non-physical events were not captured. The literature yielded 17 studies, with a range proportion of verbal abuse (22%–90%), physical threats (12%–64%) and assaults (2%–32%) reported. The literature lacked rigorous methods for examining incidence and circumstances surrounding events or rates of events over time.DiscussionFor purposes of examining the impact of type II violence on worker safety, satisfaction and retention, rigorous surveillance efforts by hospital employers and researchers are warranted.

► The literature lacks details of risk factors for hospital-based Type II violence.
► Workers’ compensation Type II violence claims have limited event details.
► Rigorous surveillance of Type II violence by hospitals and researchers is needed.
► Preliminary recommendations for surveillance data collection measures are outlined.