Abuse of health professionals getting worse

Around
nine in 10 nurses have been verbally abused at work, according to a survey by
Nursing Times magazine.

Its
poll of 2,500 nurses also reveals that 75 per cent think abuse levels have
become worse over the past few years, with a quarter saying abuse made them
consider quitting the profession.

Health
secretary John Reid told the magazine: "Any intimidation of staff –
whether it is verbal or physical – will not be tolerated and we have made it
clear that the toughest possible action will be taken against those who abuse
staff."

The
2003 NHS staff survey showed that nurses are the most likely of all hospital
trust staff to be abused or harassed.

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The
magazine has launched a campaign to raise awareness and to urge employers to
support nurses experiencing abuse.

By Mike Berry