Cultural Dimensions of Workplace Violence in Healthcare: A Narrative Review

Introduction: Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers is a global concern, afecting safety, well-being, and job satisfaction. Cultural factors signifcantly infuence aggression dynamics, making their understanding crucial for targeted prevention strategies. Aim: Tis study aims to identify and analyze the cultural factors contributing to WPV and to explore how these elements infuence both aggression dynamics and the efectiveness of strategies for its prevention and mitigation. Methods: A narrative review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Literature searches in PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus identifed studies on cultural dimensions of WPV in healthcare. A thematic analysis synthesized fndings. Results: Eight studies were included in the review. Te analysis identifed four primary cultural dimensions contributing to WPV: (1) Ethnic and linguistic disparities: Healthcare workers from minority backgrounds face higher risks due to language barriers and cultural biases, leading to miscommunication and increased aggression. (2) Female healthcare professionals, particularly in patriarchal or hierarchical workplaces, are disproportionately afected by WPV due to structural power imbalances and gender stereotypes. (3) Sociocultural perceptions of healthcare workers: Patients’ expectations of “unconditional care” can heighten frustration and aggression when unmet, particularly in underfunded or resource-limited healthcare settings. (4) Cultural normalization and underreporting: In many cultures, WPV is perceived as an inherent part of the profession, discouraging formal reporting and institutional responses. Conclusion: Cultural factors shape WPV prevalence, reporting, and management. Addressing these factors through culturally competent interventions, language accessibility, gender-sensitive policies, and institutional reforms is essential for safer workplaces. Future research should standardize WPV prevention strategies integrating cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication training. Implications for Nursing Management: Nursing management plays a key role in WPV prevention through culturally competent strategies, gender-sensitive policies, and systemic reforms. Implementing cultural competence training, language accessibility, and zero-tolerance policies can enhance safety. Strengthening reporting mechanisms and advocating for adequate stafng are crucial steps in mitigating WPV and fostering a safer healthcare environment.