Workplace compensation claim news
05/03/2008

Nurses under attack

A new report has shown that nurses working in the UK suffer the second highest rates of violence among all nurses in Europe, with only nurses in France being subject to more violent assaults. The authors of the study found that this situation leads to some inevitable and worrying consequences such as high levels of sick leave, burnout and costly payouts of workplace compensation.

The researchers detailed how 29% of all UK nurses have at some time been subjected to violence from either patients or the relatives of patients while in the workplace. Although it is not clear how many of these nurses go on to make workplace compensation claims, anecdotal evidence suggests that large numbers may be contacting personal injury solicitors.

Gail Adams, head of nursing with UNISON, said: "These statistics should make people in the UK ashamed.

"It is totally unacceptable for nurses to face rising levels of violence, when all they are trying to do is help and care for their patients.

"It's clear that despite efforts to cut violence in the NHS, more needs to be done to protect staff. Prevention is the key, coupled with better training and tough penalties for anyone found guilty of assault."

General secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Peter Carter, also voiced his concern about the study's findings, "This is yet another shocking report outlining the serious threat of violence faced by UK nurses on a daily basis.

"All nurses and healthcare workers have the right to care for their patients whilst feeling safe, secure and properly supported.

"As the report rightly points out, the Government need to put more resources into the prevention of assaults and ensure that adequate counselling and support networks are available to all victims of assault.

"In addition, the RCN would like to see employers, the police service and the justice system taking serious action against perpetrators."

The study's authors summarised what they believe lies at the heart of their findings, including their concerns over the issue of workplace compensation claims, "Workplace violence is one of the most complex and dangerous occupational hazards facing nurses.

"As its effects are varied, including increased sick leave, security costs, litigation, workers' compensation, and recruitment and retention issues, it is important to address both its psychological and organisational costs."