Verbal Aggression against Primary and Tertiary Healthcare Professionals: A Mixed-Methods Study

Letícia Teles Trindade et al

Keywords: Verbal Aggression, Workplace Violence, Occupational Health, Healthcare Workers, Primary and Tertiary Care

The Study: This mixed-methods study explored verbal aggression toward healthcare professionals in primary and tertiary care settings in Brazil. The quantitative phase included 125 participants, while the qualitative phase involved interviews with 34 workers. The aim was to understand the frequency, nature, and consequences of verbal aggression, as well as coping strategies employed by workers.

Main Findings: Verbal aggression was reported by 57.6% of participants, especially in tertiary care and among nursing technicians. Patients and family members were the main aggressors. Incidents occurred mostly during care delivery and resulted in emotional consequences such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, and demotivation. The qualitative analysis identified three categories: triggering factors (e.g., dissatisfaction with services, waiting time), emotional impacts, and coping strategies (e.g., peer support, silence, normalization of violence).

Practical Implications: Verbal aggression harms healthcare professionals’ mental health and performance. Institutions should implement prevention and response strategies such as support protocols, communication training, and psychological care.

Reference: Trindade, L. T., Santos, V. E. P., Freitas, M. D., Oliveira, A. L. L., Souza, C. D., & Medeiros, J. E. D. (2022). Verbal Aggression against Primary and Tertiary Healthcare Professionals: A Mixed-Methods Study. Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem, 75(2), e20201350. https://doi.org/10.1590/0034-7167-2020-1350

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