Prevalence of Workplace Violence Against Doctors in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Delhi

Reg No: 431

Abstract

Background

Workplace violence has emerged as a serious occupational hazard among healthcare professionals globally, affecting both developed and developing nations. In India, nearly three-fourths of doctors have faced some form of workplace violence, adversely impacting their safety, morale, and quality of patient care. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and consequences of workplace violence against doctors in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi.

AIM

To study the prevalence of workplace violence against doctors in a tertiary care hospital of Delhi.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of Workplace violence against doctors at a tertiary care hospital of Delhi.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 doctors, including interns, junior residents, senior residents, and consultants from 14 departments of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi. Participants were selected using probability proportionate to size and simple random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-validated questionnaire on socio-demographic details, experiences of violence, and reporting practices. Analysis was done using SPSS version 21. Ethical clearance was obtained.

Results

Workplace violence was reported by 63.6% (95% CI: 58.9%–68.2%) of doctors, primarily verbal abuse (63.6%; 95% CI: 59.0%–68.2%) and verbal threats (55.5%; 95% CI: 50.8%–60.1%). Incidents occurred mostly in clinical departments and during night shifts, with patients’ attendants (71%) as the main perpetrators. Only 33.3% had received formal communication-skill training, and half of the participants were aware of workplace violence laws. Although reporting procedures existed for 62.8%, only 34.0% were aware of the actual mechanism, and just 49.4% reported the incident. Violence led to emotional distress (74%), work-life imbalance (62%), and changes in patient management (58%).

Conclusion

Workplace violence negatively affects doctors’ mental health and clinical performance. Strengthening hospital security, enforcing legal safeguards, and enhancing communication skills training are to promote a safe and supportive healthcare environment.