UK Nurse Violence Shocking Says UNISON

Main Category: Nursing / Midwifery
Article Date: 04 Mar 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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Statistics showing that UK nurses suffer some of the worse violence in Europe "should make people ashamed" said UNISON, the UK's largest public service union. Research in the journal of Occupational Medicine reveals that almost a third of UK nurses suffer from frequent violence at work, with only France reporting more assaults.

Gail Adams, UNISON Head of Nursing, said:

"These statistics should make people in the UK ashamed. It is totally unacceptable for nurses to face rising levels of violence, when all they are trying to do is help and care for their patients.

"It's clear that despite efforts to cut violence in the NHS, more needs to be done to protect staff. Prevention is the key, coupled with better training and tough penalties for anyone found guilty of assault.

"Hospitals must look at the support they offer staff and start by offering good occupational health services. The survey shows many feel abandoned and depressed following an assault, which should not be allowed to happen. Some nurses suffer shock waves after an attack, that take a long time to heal and they need physical and emotional support to help them cope.

"Twenty years ago it was almost unheard of for a nurse to be told to fxxx off, now it is an everyday occurrence. Nurses need to make it clear that abusive language will not be tolerated, and report it."

http://www.unison.org.uk

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