Factors Associated with Suicidal Ideation Among Chinese Healthcare Workers Exposed to Workplace Violence: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background: Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers (HCWs) is a common global issue. However, research on the factors influencing suicidal ideation (SI) among HCWs who experience WPV is limited. This study aims to investigate the risk factors for SI among HCWs exposed to WPV. Methods: HCWs were recruited nationwide using snowball sampling. The Workplace Violence Scale (WVS) was used to assess WPV exposure, and a single-item question measured SI. Additionally, sociodemographic characteristics, workload, job satisfaction, burnout, depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, alcohol abuse/dependence history, and psychiatric disorders were evaluated. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Wilcoxon rank-sum tests, and stepwise logistic regression. Results: Among 5086 participants, 53.0% of HCWs experienced some form of WPV. Of these, 44.8% faced verbal insults, 21.2% were threatened, 17.7% suffered physical attacks, 9.2% experienced verbal harassment, and 4.2% encountered sexual assault. The prevalence of SI was significantly higher among HCWs who experienced WPV (OR = 1.69, 95% CI [1.45–1.97]). In HCWs exposed to WPV, SI was significantly associated with high perceived stress, depression, anxiety, burnout, insomnia, history of mental illness, and professional role. Conclusion: WPV is common among HCWs in China, and those affected are more likely to experience SI, as well as emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. These emotional issues can impact mental health and may exacerbate SI. Preventing WPV and addressing its consequences are crucial.