Assaults against pandemic heroes: an observational study in the Metropolitan City of Genoa in Italy

Abstract Background Escalating violence against healthcare workers is a significant public health issue that undermines care quality and workers’ health. This descriptive study aims to examine trends in aggression across different pandemic phases. Methods The study analysed reported violence among healthcare workers from 2018 to 2023 within a Local Health Authority in Genoa, Italy. Variables of interest included the severity of aggression, the professionals affected, and the locations of incidents. Data was analysed using appropriate statistical methods, including multinomial logistic regression, to assess relationships across pandemic phases. Results Reported aggressions rose from 48 incidents in 2018 to 103 in 2023, totaling 463. Pre-pandemic physical violence was at 39%, dropping to 27% during and after the pandemic (χ²=7.4, df = 2, p < 0.025). Nurses experienced the highest violence rates, with an average of 72% pre-pandemic and 74% post-pandemic, reducing to 51% during the pandemic if compared with doctors (Coef -0.80; 95%CI -1.45|-0.15). Over half of incidents occurred in Emergency and Psychiatric Services, from 77% before to 51% after pandemic. Conversely, violence in Local Services rose from 7% before to 24% during and 28% after pandemic (χ²=56.9, df = 6, p < 0.000). If compared to Hospitals, violence in Local Services increased during (Coef 1.44; 95%CI 0.40|2.48) and post-pandemic (Coef 1.001; 95%CI 0.13|1.87), and in Psychiatric Services decreased post-pandemic (Coef -0.98; 95%CI -1.67|-0.29). Conclusions Violence against healthcare workers shifted during and post-pandemic, mirroring the decentralisation of healthcare due to pandemic. The urgent development and implementation of effective violence prevention strategies are imperative. These should include training, psychological support, security enhancements, and a strong organisational culture that prioritises safety and respect. Protecting healthcare workers is crucial for their well-being and to ensure high healthcare quality. Key messages • Escalating violence undermines care quality and healthcare worker well-being. Effective prevention strategies are essential, including training, support, and an organisation that prioritises safety. • Nurses are the main victims of violence. Violence is higher in Emergency Departments, but incidents are increasing in Local Health Services, due to organisational changes during and post-pandemic.