Assault rates and implementation of a workplace violence prevention program in the Veterans Health Care Administration

J Occup Environ Med. 2011 May;53(5):511-6. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0b013e31820d101e.

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the relationship between changes in assault rates over time and the implementation of a workplace violence prevention (WVP) program in 138 Department of Veterans Affairs health care facilities.

Methods: Data on WVP implementation were assessed for each facility by a three-person team. We computed three WVP dimension scores: training, workplace practices, and environmental control and security. We obtained 6 years of assault rate data from the national injury system. Using a linear mixed model, we analyzed whether the WVP implementation was associated with lower assault rates controlling for time and organizational characteristics.

Results: Training implementation was negatively associated with assault rates. Facilities with smaller bed sizes and without academic affiliates had lower assault rates.

Conclusions: Particular attention should be given to these dimensions because they may be associated with lower facility-level assault rates.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Delivery of Health Care / organization & administration*
  • Government Programs
  • Humans
  • United States
  • United States Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Veterans Health
  • Violence / prevention & control*
  • Violence / statistics & numerical data
  • Workplace / statistics & numerical data*