O-149 Workplace Violence in a Secondary Hospital in Wuhan, China in the Context of Covid-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract Introduction The occupational health of health workers (HWs) has attracted widespread attention during COVID-19. The aim of this study is to explore risk factors for workplace violence (WPV) toward HWs and to provide tailored measures for prevention and control in the health sector. Methods In 2022, a mixed methods study was conducted in one sample hospital in Wuhan city, the hardest hit area by COVID-19 in China, combining a cross-sectional study on the risk factors and status of burnout and work ability, and qualitative interviews for the views of WPV. This study was approved for ethical review by the Peking Union Medical College. Results Among 571 respondents, the incidence rate of physical violence and psychological violence was 3.33% and 31.35%, respectively. Being male (OR=4.80, P=0.010), immigrating from other cities (OR=4.40, P=0.013), shift work (OR=2.83, P=0.001) and direct patient contact (OR=7.29, P0.001) were risk factors. The experience of psychological violence was associated with an increase of burnout (t=-4.02), and a decrease of work ability (t=4.77). The negative impacts of WPV incidents ranged from psychological, cognitive to work motivation. The causes of WPV incidents arose from individual factors, organizational factors, work environment, and social factors. Discussion WPV towards HWs is a global problem with country-specific features. This study suggests a specific picture for WPV prevention and control in the hospital. Further research is needed on psychological violence and mental health outcomes. Conclusion In the post-COVID era, tackling WPV in the health sector needs systemic measures, and should be integrated into the occupational safety and health management system.