In recent years, the healthcare sector in the UK has faced an alarming rise in reported incidents of violence against nursing staff. In 2023, more than one in four nurses experienced abuse while working. Such violence not only affects the physical and mental wellbeing of nurses but also significantly contributes to rising resignation rates within the sector.

With the associated anxiety, injury, stress and low morale that comes with the ongoing threat of aggression, it is hardly surprising that many dedicated professionals have been prompted to leave the profession altogether.

Prioritising nurse safety is crucial then to protecting the healthcare sector as we know it.

Improved staff wellbeing

In 2023, NHS England saw staff absences equivalent to every nurse taking one week off work due to stress. In high-risk workplaces, such as healthcare settings, inadequate safety protocols contribute to poor staff wellbeing with employees left feeling unsupported and unsafe during their shift. The stress and anxiety associated with the ongoing threat of abuse is a key factor in staff absences and resignations. It is therefore vital that healthcare workers are given the tools, support system and training to tackle aggressive behaviour and prevent the risk of attack. Doing so is vital to minimising stress-related absences and improving staff mental health.

Injury 

For nurses to thrive at work, they must feel confident in the measures that protect them. When patients become violent in dangerous situations, there is a high likelihood that staff will be subject to will physical injury, causing sick leave from work, and potentially a move out of the healthcare sector altogether.

Implementing safety measures that prevent abusive behaviour decreases the risk of violent behaviour, reducing injury rates and in turn absences.

Greater job fulfilment

Without the threat of violence, nursing staff are better able to focus on their primary role: providing exceptional care to patients. Confidence in their wellbeing at work is reflected in higher standards of care, and in turn, enhanced treatment outcomes for patients.  

As a result, nurses feel encouraged to pursue opportunities and consider their professional development, strengthening the level of service within the sector. 

Increased staff morale

Implementing effective safety measures creates a workplace culture where nurses feel valued, supported and respected. Employers who prioritise maintaining such a culture are less likely to face negative publicity and find their staff are more likely to speak positively about their workplace. This can have a significant effect on recruitment and retention, as satisfied employees often become ambassadors for their organisation, attracting new talent and reducing turnover rates.

In healthcare, where staff turnover rates are reportedly high, building a positive workplace reputation is more important than ever to attract talent and keep staff in the industry. Being able to highlight the tangible staff safety measures that are in place to support staff along with testimonials is a great place to start!

Pinpoint Staff Safety Systems 

Pinpoint’s industry-leading staff safety systems provide nurses with the protection and support they need to feel safe and continue their careers in healthcare. By simply pressing a button on their Personal Infrared Transmitters (PITs), nurses alert colleagues to their location and the need for assistance within seconds, triggering a rapid support response to intervene and de-escalate a potential incident.

Healthcare environments should be well-equipped with advanced staff alarm systems to ensure nurses can access support when it is needed.  Doing so is important, not only to provide high standards of care, but also to feel enthused by and fulfilled in their job.

Tangible safety protocols such as the presence of Pinpoint’s alarm systems build confidence among staff, enabling them to provide vital care with confidence and continue working within the industry. 

Looking for a safety alarm system to protect your workforce? Get in touch with us to discuss your security needs.