WORKPLACE VIOLENCE AGAINST HEALTHCARE WORKERS:THE CASE OF URBAN HEALTH EXTENSION WORKER IN KOLFE KERANYO SUB-CITY ,ADDIS ABABA

Abstract

Workplace violence is a significant yet under-addressed issue affecting healthcare professionals, particularly Health Extension Workers (HEWs) who operate within community settings. This study aimed to assess the forms of workplace violence, the effects of workplace violence and the availability of reporting mechanisms among urban health extension workers in Kolfe Keranyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa. Using a qualitative approach with phenomenological study design. Data was collected through in-depth interviews from five health extension workers which were selected through purposive sampling method then data was analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that verbal abuse, physical aggression, and psychological intimidation were the common forms of violence, frequently perpetrated by community members, leading to emotional exhaustion, job dissatisfaction, and fear. Despite of the finding of such incidents, participants reported an absence of formal reporting mechanisms, resulting in normalization of violence and reliance on peer support or silence. The study highlights the urgent need for institutional reforms and social work advocacy to establish protective policies, effective reporting systems, and psycho-social support structures for front line healthcare workers