Factors Contributing to Increased Workplace Violence Against Nurses During COVID-19 in the Healthcare Settings of a Lower Middle-income Country: A Qualitative Study

• DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2024.04.008
• Publication Date: 2024-04-30T16:51:51Z
• Authors: Rozina Somani; Carles Muntaner; Alisa J. Velonis; Peter Smith; Edith M. Hillan
• Keywords: Workplace violence; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

The aim of this study was to provide the perceptions nurses, nursing supervisors, and administrators about factors contributing increased workplace violence (WPV) against nurses within healthcare settings in Pakistan during first wave COVID-19 pandemic. This used a Descriptive Qualitative design, with purposive sampling technique. From September December 2021, In-depth interviews 45 60 minutes, using semistructured interview guide, we collected data from private public setting Pakistan. Given travel restrictions pandemic, these were conducted online, Zoom audio features. Bedside at least six months work experience participated study. qualitative analysis steps suggested by Braun Clarke (2013) for thematic analysis. overarching theme emerging "Factors perceived that contributed WPV their COVID-19, lower middle-income country" subthemes participants' narrations (a) highly stressed patients, attendants, workers; (b) financial burden on patients families; (c) lack resources shortage staff; (d) restricted visiting policy weak security system; (e) awareness seriousness COVID-19; (f) misconceptions vaccines nurses' role disseminating awareness. current pandemic intensity Despite any supposed reasons WPV, exposure should never be an acceptable part nursing. system needs pay equal attention funding, resource provision, ensuring safe working environment workers.