81 percent of healthcare workers in Italy complain of having been physically or verbally attacked at least once. Employees of emergency departments and psychiatric hospitals are particularly affected. The aggression comes from patients and their family members.
This is evident from a new study by the doctors’ union Anaao Assomed, in which doctors from all disciplines participated. According to them, long waiting times, overcrowding and shortages of beds and staff contribute to fueling aggressive behavior. In about half of the cases (51.3 percent), the verbal or physical attacks come from the patient; Family members are still responsible for 42.3 percent of incidents.
The police are called in every fourth case
The police were called in approximately every fourth case (26 percent). The majority (73 percent) indicate that they have tackled the violence alone or with the help of colleagues. The majority of healthcare workers (69 percent) did not report the attackers.
This is a sign of widespread distrust that legal action can lead to concrete results, the union said. “Above all, those affected give up because they fear the emotional and time-consuming burden of reporting, which would leave them facing legal fees, court hearings and possibly further threats from the attacker.”
“Report only the tip of the iceberg”
The headlines are only the most dramatic and “represent only the tip of the iceberg of a worrying, widespread and ongoing situation of aggression (…),” the union said. This creates a climate of fear in the workplace, especially among female staff.
The problem is also known in Austria. Doctors receive threatening letters or are insulted in their consulting rooms.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
