The shortage of nurses has triggered a healthcare crisis worldwide. While this peril is widely acknowledged, its impact on violence against healthcare workers often flies under the radar. A Finnish study has shed light on the situation, revealing that currently, over two-thirds of healthcare workers in Finland experience violence in their workplaces. In a bid to prompt both policymakers and employees to act, nurses, first responders, and various other healthcare professionals nationwide showed up for work bearing black eyes.
Black-Eyed Day
Over two-thirds of healthcare workers in Finland face physical violence or its threat at their place of work. For too long this issue has been overlooked but no more.
Tehy aims to eradicate violence within the social and healthcare sector
Tehy's overarching objective is to completely eradicate violence within the entire social and healthcare sector. To attain this goal, substantial modifications are needed in both labor and criminal laws. Another crucial requirement is ensuring an adequate workforce in the healthcare sector, as the workforce shortage is a major contributor to the heightened risk of workplace violence. Employers on the other hand must place significant emphasis on not only preventing violent incidents but also establishing well-defined protocols for addressing such situations.
Workplace violence is a global issue that needs to be addressed
Workplace violence is a globally acknowledged issue and in 2019 the International Labour Organization (ILO) approved a convention to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace. Up to date Finland is yet to ratify the agreement and Tehy demands prompt action from the government.
In addition to Tehy, the World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged workplace violence as a substantial risk within the healthcare sector. According to WHO, violence against healthcare workers not only detrimentally affects their mental and physical well-being but also jeopardizes the quality of healthcare services. This is why Tehy extends an invitation to healthcare professionals worldwide, urging them to stand together in advocating for a safer work environment. Violence should never be considered an occupational hazard.