Methods: This study explores four alternative solutions to combat the adverse effects of HV, which are: 1) encouraging and supporting the human resource department in the development of zero tolerance policies and procedures, 2) integrating transformational leaders in the organization, 3) utilizing educational interventions to stop violence early, and 4) the achievement of Magnet status.
Results: The literature review revealed that the most effective, yet challenging method to reverse negative environments where workplace violence exists is to begin the journey to excellence and initiate the Magnet Status application process. The path to Magnet designation unifies the organization and creates a positive organizational culture and workplace environment where team members support each other and communicate effectively. As the culture of the HCO changes and work environments become more positive, nurse satisfaction will increase, the quality of patient care will also increase, the rate of errors will decrease, all of which lead to higher quality patient healthcare outcomes (Reynolds et al., 2014).
Conclusion: The most effective solution to reduce and put an end to HV is the application and implementation of Magnet recognition and status. The designation of Magnet status is a top achievement and represents a dedication to excellence on every level, by every practitioner in the organization (Westendorf, 2007). Organizations that have achieved Magnet status have demonstrated that their employees are team oriented and work together to achieve goals, that they display positive attitude in positive work environments, they demonstrate respect for each other and their patients and that they are committed to providing high quality patient care (Becher & Visovsky, 2012). The three methods used to evaluate the success of the solution will be the achievement of Magnet status, the nursing survey distributed every six months, and the documentation of all HV occurrences. As positive work environments increase and nurse satisfaction levels increase, the rate of HV drastically decreases which in turn has a positive effect on the quality of patient care and healthcare outcomes (Reynolds et al., 2014). Horizontal violence is an international concern that is detrimental to the nursing profession and though the steps may be challenging and difficult, the benefits of Magnet Status attainment are substantial (Becher & Visovsky, 2012).