# Prevalence and Characteristics of Workplace Violence Towards Healthcare Workers in Primary Healthcare Settings in Muscat, Oman

## TL;DR

This study examines the high prevalence of workplace violence against healthcare workers in primary care settings in Muscat, Oman, highlighting the need for better training and institutional responses.

## Contribution

The study provides the first assessment of workplace violence in primary healthcare settings in Muscat, Oman.

## Key findings

- 64.2% of healthcare workers in Muscat experienced workplace violence, with verbal abuse and bullying being most common.
- Nurses were most frequently targeted, and patients were the main perpetrators.
- Many incidents went unreported or uninvestigated, despite existing policies.

## Abstract

Workplace violence (WPV) is a growing occupational health concern, with healthcare workers (HCWs) particularly at risk. While high rates of WPV towards HCWs have been reported in emergency and psychiatry settings in Oman, little is known about its prevalence in primary care. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of WPV towards HCWs in primary care settings in Muscat, Oman.

This cross-sectional study was conducted between November and December 2024 in Muscat's primary health centres using the validated Workplace Violence in the Health Sector Country Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses (Chi-square and logistic regression) were used to assess prevalence and associated factors of WPV.

A total of 218 participants were included (response rate = 74.7%). The overall prevalence of WPV was 64.2% (95% confidence interval: 57.8–70.6%) with verbal abuse and bullying/mobbing being the most common forms. Victims were most often nurses, followed by physicians, while patients were the primary perpetrators. Significant associations were found between violence type and perpetrator identity, victim response, perceived preventability and reasons for not reporting. Despite existing policies, many participants lacked training or awareness of reporting procedures. Most incidents were not investigated and had no consequences for the perpetrators.

WPV is a major issue for primary HCWs in Muscat, Oman. Gaps in awareness, training and institutional response highlight the need for stronger prevention, accountability and support measures to protect HCWs and ensure quality patient care.