Home Care Workers Face Hidden Dangers

Home care workers often find themselves in risky situations. They visit patients in their homes, where they might face violence from those they care for. This is called Type II workplace violence. It happens when patients, their family, or visitors act aggressively toward healthcare workers. The problem is, these workers don't always get the right training or support to handle such situations.

Underreported and Undersupported

A recent study looked at different reports and research papers from 2014 to 2024. It found that violence in home care settings is often not reported. The training programs available are usually designed for hospitals, not private homes. This leaves home care workers more open to physical and emotional harm.

The Need for Specialized Training

The studies suggest that special training is needed. This training should focus on:

• How to spot risky situations
• Staying aware of surroundings
• Calming down aggressive patients

The study also calls for better rules and support from the organizations that employ these workers. This way, home care workers can feel safer and more protected.

The Vulnerability of Home Care Workers

It's important to note that home care workers are often alone when they visit patients. This makes them more vulnerable to violence. They need better training and support to handle these situations. The study also found that more research is needed to develop better ways to prevent and report violence in home care settings.