Escalating workplace violence hits hospitals hard

Violence against healthcare workers is a fundamental problem in U.S. healthcare that very few people speak about, according to Cleveland Clinic CEO Tom Mihaljevic.

Many healthcare workers say the physical and verbal abuse comes primarily from patients. But sometimes nurses and doctors are abused by family members who are on edge,  Mihaljevic said in an article on the Kaiser News Network website.

Many healthcare facilities are increasing security measures to deal with the issue, for instance. When you visit the Cleveland Clinic emergency department, a large sign directs you toward a metal detector. An officer inspects all bags.

Cleveland Clinic has also introduced other safety measures — such as wireless panic buttons incorporated into ID badges and more safety cameras and plainclothes officers in ERs.

Read the article.