Awareness of MBBS students on effects of workplace violence and conflict management in hospital scenario

Abstract

According to World Health Organisation, healthcare workers are four times more prone to injuries due to workplace violence compared to other professions. An ongoing study by the Indian Medical Association inferred that about 75% of doctors have faced violence at work, where many of the cases were reported from Emergency wards and Intensive Care Units and the patient’s relatives were the prime offenders. Poor doctorpatient communication and weak conflict resolution skills are some of the preventable reasons for violence on doctors. A questionnaire-based study was conducted on MBBS students to assess the effects of violence on doctors and their level of preparedness in dealing with violent situations. Majority of the students were not taught precautionary measures or methods of managing conflicts and thus are not properly equipped in tackling workplace violence. By improving their manner of conduct towards the patients in likely incidents of violence and training them in managing conflicts, such acts shall be curbed effectively.