Workplace Violence: The Case Study

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Type of Workplace violence

The case study under analysis features aggression or workplace violence. It is possible to define workplace violence as “any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site, and may cause physical or emotional harm” (Saragoza & White, 2016). This statement refers to the fact that Ethel attacked Abby verbally and physically, which made the latter survive severe asthmaticus.

Focal Issues

There are a few focal issues that are worth considering. Firstly, Abby was married to Sam, while Ethel tried to force her to leave her husband. This fact shocked Abby, and she started yelling back at Ethel, which resulted in asthma complications. As a result, Abby was admitted to the ICU, which was Ethel’s workplace. That is why Abby told the Nursing Supervisor that she was afraid of Ethel, who would try to kill her.

Identify the Victims and Perpetrator/Aggressor

The case study makes it clear that Abby is a leading victim who survives physical and emotional challenges. Ethel is an aggressor and attacks Abby verbally and physically. It is worth adding that the hospital’s reputation will suffer if Ethel tries to kill Abby.

Potential/immediate issues for employees/management/organization

The situation implies immediate issues that adversely affect Abby and the entire organization. Abby feels endangered, while the Nursing Supervisor should take some steps to increase her safety and have a discussion with Ethel. Simultaneously, potential issues can negatively affect the organization and individual employees. Firstly, acts of aggression and violence typically worsen the workplace environment. Secondly, when employees feel unsafe, their productivity decreases, and they can want to leave the job.

Appropriate interventions to be taken immediately, short- and long-term actions for the victim, perpetrator, and company

Immediate action – Call the police and provide a security guard for Abby to prove that Ethel cannot reach her. It is also reasonable to reach Sam and ask him to clarify his relationships with the two.

Short-term actions for victim – Provide Abby with appropriate medical treatment and mental health to overcome her anxiety.

Long-term actions for victims – Organize regular training sessions to help employees understand the importance of effective multidisciplinary teamwork (Saragoza & White, 2016). The human resource department should take specific steps to analyze employees’ aggression levels to know which individuals are subject to this violence type.

Suggestions to prevent or mitigate the chances this scenario will not happen again, at least at the company.

Risk assessment is effective since this approach helps organizations predict situations and identify individuals that can express aggression and violence (Kormanik, 2011). In this case, organizations can be proactive in preventing workplace violence.

References

Kormanik, M. B. (2011). Workplace violence: Assessing organizational awareness and planning interventions. Advances in Developing Human Resources, 13(1), 114-127. Web.

Saragoza, P., & White, S. G. (2016). Workplace violence: Practical considerations for mental health professionals in consultation, assessment, and management of risk. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 39, 599-610. Web.

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