Authors

1. Parker, Karen M. DNP, FNP-C, RN
2. Harrington, Ann MPA, BSN, RN, NEA-BC
3. Smith, Charlene M. DNS, MSEd, WHNP, RN-BC, CNE, ANEF
4. Sellers, Kathleen F. PhD, RN
5. Millenbach, Linda PhD, RN

Abstract

Horizontal violence (HV) is prevalent in nursing. However, few strategies are identified to address this phenomenon that undermines communication and patient safety. Nurses at an acute care hospital implemented multiple interventions to address HV resulting in increased knowledge of hospital policies regarding HV, and significantly (p < .05) less HV prevalence than was reported by nurses in other organizations throughout New York State. With the aid and oversight of nursing professional development specialists, evidence-based interventions to address HV were developed including policies, behavioral performance reviews, and staff/manager educational programs.