Effectiveness of Interventions to Reduce Workplace Violence Against Nurses by Patients and Visitors: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND

Workplace violence (WPV) against nurses by patients and visitors remains a significant threat to nurses' safety and well-being; however, evidence on the effectiveness of interventions remains fragmented.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to reduce WPV against nurses by patients and visitors in healthcare settings.

METHODS

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched for studies published between 2020 and 2025. Eligible studies employed quantitative or mixed-methods designs and examined interventions targeting WPV among nurses. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies were included in the review. Interventions were categorized into 5 themes: (1) training and education, (2) reporting and documentation, (3) policy and environmental, (4) technology-based, and (5) multi-component. Outcomes consistently demonstrated reductions in WPV incidents, enhanced nurses' confidence, preparedness, de-escalation skills, resilience, job satisfaction, and improved reporting rates.

CONCLUSION

Integrative strategies, including skill-based training, supportive policies, strengthened environmental safety, improved reporting systems, and structured post-incident management, are effective in reducing WPV and enhancing nurses' capacity to manage violent incidents.