Workplace sexual violence against nurses and the role of professional associations

Globally, more than half of nurses are exposed to workplace sexual violence. The high prevalence of workplace sexual violence among nurses should be understood in terms of the unique aspects of their work environment, including the sexual objectification of nurses, the hierarchical structure of health care institutions, an organizational culture unresponsive to sexual violence, and nurses' role as care providers. Professional associations for health care providers could play significant roles in eradicating workplace sexual violence by taking the following steps: being stakeholders in preparing relevant legislation, developing policy in collaboration with other associations and government bodies, laying the foundation for building systematic support for health care institutions, conducting surveys on sexual violence on a regular basis, and providing a monitoring and support system in collaboration with professional organizations dedicated to sexual violence.