Creating a Workplace Violence Simulation in an Undergraduate Nursing Program

Abstract :

Background: Healthcare workers often find themselves in situations where they might have to deal with aggressive behavior from patients, families, or colleagues. Evidence points to exposure to workplace violence (WPV) can result in psychological stress and eventual burnout. Population: In pre-professional nursing programs, simulating mental health scenarios offers a secure training environment to bolster the communication abilities of future nurses when interacting with fellow healthcare professionals, fosters problem-solving skills, and equips them to handle difficult situations in their future workplaces more effectively.

Method: Experienced simulationists will conduct a 4-hour workshop-style learning session to empower faculty, enabling them to create and implement effective WPV simulation within their own program.

Discussion: These simulations on WPV create a psychologically safe space for learners to enhance their communication skills when working with patients experiencing emotional dysregulation and members of the interdisciplinary team. Contemporary research underscores the necessity of adequately preparing healthcare personnel for unexpected incidents like workplace violence, including aggressive behaviors, which can potentially lead to prolonged emotional strain and burnout.