The impact of workplace violence on healthcare professionals’ quality of life: the mediating role of social support

Abstract

Abstract Background Workplace violence (WPV) is considered a global public health issue that places physical and mental burdens on healthcare professionals (HCPs). WPV generally negatively affects quality of life (QOL). Purpose This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WPV in HCPs and its association with their QOL in the presence of social support. Methods Cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational research was conducted in medical, surgical, intensive care, and emergency departments in hospitals in Amman. A total of 367 HCPs filled questionnaires designed to evaluate aspects related to WPV, QOL, and social support. Results The prevalence of verbal and physical violence was 83.1 and 23.4%, respectively. Low levels of WPV, moderate to high level of social support, and low to moderate total QOL were noted. Conclusion Verbal violence was more dominant among HCPs. WPV negatively affects most domains of HCPs’ QOL. Social support successfully alleviated the consequences of WPV.

Keywords

• Workplace violence
• Healthcare professionals
• Quality of life
• Social support