Assessment Of Factors That Influence Abuse Of Nurses By Patients And Relatives

This study aimed to assess the factors influencing abuse of nurses by patients and relatives at Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Specifically, it sought to determine the prevalence and types of abuse faced by nurses from patients’ relatives, investigate the effects of such abuse, and explore preventive measures. The survey employed a survey design with simple random sampling among nurses at the hospital. A total of 57 respondents were conveniently selected, with 50 validated responses. Data was collected using a self-constructed and validated questionnaire, analyzed through frequency tables and mean scores.

The findings indicated a high prevalence of abuse towards nurses by patients’ relatives at Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Prevention measures suggested included engaging nurses in personal safety training programs, promoting prompt and accurate reporting of violent incidents, removing potential weapons, and enhancing nurses’ awareness of risky situations.

Based on these results, it is recommended that regular counseling sessions or educational videos on workplace violence (WPV) be conducted at the hospital. These initiatives aim to mitigate abuse and ensure a safer working environment for nurses.