We, the concerned nurses and hospital staff of George Washington University Hospital (GWUH) and members of the community, in partnership with DCNA, urgently request a meeting with Ms. Kim Russo, the CEO of GWUH. We seek this meeting to discuss the alarming rise in security and workplace violence issues that we have been encountering while diligently serving our patients within the hospital premises, specifically the recent incident where a person in police custody escaped from the Emergency Department.

The safety and well-being of both patients and healthcare professionals are paramount in any healthcare setting. However, recent incidents at GWUH have left us deeply troubled and concerned for our own safety as we carry out our duties. It is imperative that immediate action be taken to address these pressing concerns.

According to a report published by The American Journal of Nursing (AJN) in 2019, workplace violence against healthcare workers is a significant problem across the United States. The AJN report reveals that healthcare workers experience rates of nonfatal workplace violence up to 12 times higher than other occupations on average.

Furthermore, data from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)  indicates that approximately 75% of all workplace assaults reported annually occur within the healthcare sector. These shocking statistics highlight an urgent need for comprehensive measures to ensure a safe working environment for nurses and other hospital staff at GWUH.

In addition to these national trends, there have been numerous distressing incidents reported by our colleagues at GWUH regarding security breaches and acts of violence within our own facility including the recent incident in our Emergency Department. These incidents not only jeopardize physical safety but also impact mental well-being among staff members who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

We firmly believe that addressing these issues requires immediate attention from top management. By requesting this meeting with Ms. Russo, we hope to engage in an open dialogue about implementing effective strategies aimed at preventing workplace violence within GWUH.

Our proposed solutions include:

1. Strengthening security protocols: We urge the hospital administration to conduct a thorough review of existing security measures and implement enhanced protocols that ensure the safety of both staff and patients.

2. Increasing staffing levels: Insufficient staffing can contribute to an increased risk of workplace violence. We request that GWUH takes necessary steps to address understaffing issues, ensuring adequate personnel are available in all departments.

3. Comprehensive training programs: Implementing mandatory training programs for all staff members on recognizing, preventing, and responding to workplace violence incidents is crucial. These programs should equip employees with effective de-escalation techniques and self-defense strategies.

4. Encouraging and supporting reporting mechanisms: Establishing a confidential reporting system that encourages staff members to report incidents without fear of retaliation is essential for creating a culture of safety within GWUH. Addressing these reports are also vital in ensuring that preventable harm does not occur from lack of action.

By signing this petition, we stand united as healthcare professionals who are committed to providing exceptional care while working in a secure environment at GWU Hospital to serve our community. We kindly request Ms. Russo's prompt attention and cooperation in scheduling this meeting so that we may collectively address these urgent concerns and work towards creating a safer workplace for all.

Together, let us strive towards fostering an environment where nurses, providers, support staff, and patients feel safe, respected, and protected from any form of violence or harm within the walls of George Washington University Hospital.