Document Type
Report
Publication Date
Spring 2025
Date of Final Presentation
3-27-2025
Committee Chair
April Howell, DNP, RN
Committee Member
Pam Strohfus, DNP, RN
Coordinator/ Chair of DNP Program
April Howell, DNP, RN
Abstract/ Executive Summary
Background: Nurses routinely face threats, verbal abuse, and physical violence, yet widespread underreporting obscures the full scale of the problem, hindering efforts to address workplace culture and protect nurses.
Aim: Through leadership engagement and targeted staff education, this quality improvement project sought to increase workplace violence reporting rates on a 35-bed medical/surgical unit.
Methods: Over eight weeks, a three-phase intervention was implemented. Phase one equipped charge nurses with uniquely designed training (DIVER framework) to strengthen leadership support. In phase two, staff received micro-education through established communication channels. Phase three reinforced learning via interactive staff meetings. Pre- and post-intervention surveys assessed changes in perceptions and reporting behaviors.
Outcomes: The intervention led to a 19% increase in perceived support from charge nurses, a 7% rise in staff understanding of workplace violence definitions, and 91% of staff expressing a greater likelihood to report incidents. Importantly, the perception of workplace violence as “a normal part of the job” declined by 9%. Despite these gains, negative perceptions of the reporting tool persisted.
Impact: This project demonstrates the power of locally focused, leadership-driven change in shifting workplace culture toward greater transparency and safety. Interventions successfully encouraged reporting, though further improvements in reporting systems are needed to sustain long-term progress.
Recommended Citation
Blomquist, Jason K., "Addressing Organizational Factors Contributing to the Underreporting of Workplace Violence in Nursing" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 69.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/dnp/69