Addressing Workplace Violence in Healthcare: Legislation and Progress

Workplace violence is a major concern for nurses and other healthcare providers. Statistics from a 2019 nurse survey showed that 1 in 4 nurses experienced some form of assault.  Being a nurse of over 35 years, I can recall several times being hit, bit and kicked by patients throughout my career. At that time, there was no means of support for a nurse in these instances. It was always looked at as just part of the job. Now, our political leaders are listening to our concerns.

One of the best protections healthcare employers can offer their workers is to establish a zero-tolerance policy toward workplace violence. The policy should cover all workers, patients, clients, visitors, contractors, and anyone else who may come in contact with workers of the facility.

On April 13, 2021, the Executive Office of the President issued a Statement of Administration Policy supporting the passage of H.R. 1195, the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act.

This legislation will help develop Federal standards that will guarantee healthcare and social service employers create and implement plans to protect, prevent and improve responses to workplace violence. This is a step in the right direction to ensure healthcare workers are protected while they are providing the necessary care to others.

On April 19, 2021, the House of Representatives approved H.R. 1195. At the date of this publication, it has been received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. You can track the progress of this important legislation here.

This current bill status at the date of publication: Passed House

The steps for Status of Legislation for the bill to be enacted into law include:

1. Introduced
2. Passed House
3. Passed Senate
4. To President
5. Become Law

Take action now to support healthcare workers and advocate for their safety! Join Advantage Medical Professionals in promoting the passage of H.R. 1195, the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act. Together, we can establish a zero-tolerance policy towards workplace violence and ensure the protection of nurses and other healthcare providers. Track the progress of this crucial legislation and make a difference today. Stand up for those who care for others.

References:

1. H.R.1195— 117th Congress (2021-2022)Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers ActSponsor: Rep. Courtney, Joe [D-CT-2] (Introduced 02/22/2021) Cosponsors: (145) Committees: House – Education and Labor; Energy and Commerce; Ways and Means | Senate – Health, Education, Labor, and PensionsCommittee Report: H. Rept. 117-14 Latest Action: Senate – 04/19/2021 Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. (All Actions)