Costruire sicurezza nel Pronto Soccorso: uno studio grounded theory sulla violenza e le dinamiche di équipe

Chiara d'Angelo; Lara Pierboni; Annamaria Carlini; Tiziana Perin; Lea Godino

doi:10.54103/dn/30678

Authors

Chiara d'Angelo IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
Lara Pierboni Nursing and Technical Directorate, AUSL Romagna, Rimini, Italy https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9555-2980
Annamaria Carlini Nursing and Technical Directorate, AUSL Romagna, Rimini, Italy
Tiziana Perin Department of Emergency, Internal Medicine and Cardiology, AUSL Romagna, Rimini, Italy
Lea Godino Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3763-9372

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54103/dn/30678

Keywords:

Workplace violence, Emergency Department, Nurses, Perceived safety

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare personnel is a growing global phenomenon. Nurses represent the professional group most frequently exposed, particularly in Emergency Departments. WPV has significant consequences for healthcare workers’ well-being and for the quality of care delivered.

AIM: This study aimed to explore workplace violence experienced by nurses and healthcare support workers operating in an Emergency Department, with a specific focus on factors influencing perceived safety.

METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using a constructivist Grounded Theory approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews between July 1 and September 30, 2022, until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis followed three main phases: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding.

RESULTS: Analysis of 20 semi-structured interviews led to the development of a theoretical model entitled “the veterans’ spiral”, grounded in three interrelated dimensions: team relationships, professional satisfaction, and emotional involvement. The model highlights how group cohesion and the recognition of individual competencies act as protective factors, fostering professional stability and enhancing the quality of care. Furthermore, the findings indicate that more experienced professionals play a mentoring role in managing violent incidents, drawing on essential communication and relational skills.

CONCLUSION: Promoting a cohesive work environment that values relational competencies is essential for strengthening healthcare workers’ resilience and ensuring high-quality care in emergency settings.

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