Domestic and Workplace Violence

Course overview

At the end of this tutorial, the CNA/HHA will be able to: 1. Discuss violence in home health and healthcare facilities and it’s rise. 2. Detail what behaviors to look for to prevent violence. 3. State what the Administrator can do to help employees in crisis. 4. Define ways to prevent violent incidents. 5. Examine the OSHA guidelines on preventing violence at work. 6. Discuss what to do if an incident occurs. You may be wondering if violence in the workplace is a real problem. Maybe you feel safe and secure where you work, especially if you are in a nice home or apartment. Good for you! Unfortunately, the facts show that violence and attacks on health care workers is a very real safety and health threat. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), more violent attacks take place in health care and social services facilities than in any other workplace. This includes the client’s own home or apartment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that this trend is increasing. Their records show that among all American workers, healthcare and social service employees experience the most non-fatal attacks. In 1993, the American Nurses Association asked OSHA to make rules to protect nurses and other health care workers from on-the-job violence. OSHA issued voluntary guidelines, which we will discuss later in this lesson.