Nurses Say OH Hospital Failed To Protect Them From Armed Patient, Safety Complaint Claims

Ohio State University nurses have filed a safety complaint against OSU Wexner Medical Center over workplace violence. The complaint highlights an incident in December 2024 where a patient armed with a loaded firearm made death threats against staff in the emergency department. The Ohio State University Nurses Organization (OSUNO), represented by the Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) and AFT, argue the hospital system fails to adequately protect its nurses from workplace violence.

Inadequate Protection Measures Highlighted

The safety complaint filed by the ONA shows an apparent lack of effective measures to prevent and respond to incidents of workplace violence at the Wexner Medical Center. Despite the growing concern about healthcare worker safety across the nation, the complaint suggests that this major medical facility has not implemented sufficient protocols to safeguard its nursing staff. The ONA’s move aligns with the broader efforts of nursing organizations nationwide to advocate for safer working conditions in healthcare settings. 

Workplace violence is not a new issue, nor is it unique to Ohio State University, but it has gained increased attention in recent years. Healthcare workers accounted for 73% of nonfatal injuries and illnesses due to workplace violence in 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nurses and other healthcare workers often face verbal abuse, physical assaults, and other forms of aggression from patients, visitors, and sometimes even colleagues. The failure to address these concerns adequately can lead to a hostile work environment, decreased job satisfaction, and potential risks to patient care.

Rick Lucas, BSN, RN, CCRN, ONA President and Executive Director, said: “Nurses and health professionals shouldn’t have to fear for their safety while doing their jobs. When security measures and protocols fail to address these threats effectively, it puts everyone—staff and patients alike—at unnecessary risk.”

Ohio State University has policies in place to address workplace violence:

• OSU's Workplace Violence Policy 7.05 aims to provide a work environment free from threats and violence.
• Employees are encouraged to report incidents of workplace violence to their supervisors or human resources representatives.
• The university commits to protecting individuals who report workplace violence from retaliation.

However, the recent complaint suggests that these measures may not be sufficient to protect nurses from workplace violence effectively.

Call for Systemic Changes

Unfortunately, this complaint is not the first of its kind in Ohio. Just weeks ago, Gov. Mike DeWine signed Ohio’s HB 452 into law, aiming to improve hospital workplace safety by expanding staff training, enhancing incident reporting, and strengthening security measures. The legislation, prompted by the tragic death of Tristin Smith, a nurse in Dayton, also grants civil immunity to individuals acting in self-defense or protecting others. A key provision requires hospitals to incorporate input from frontline healthcare workers when developing safety plans to better address the growing issue of workplace violence in medical settings.

Workplace safety is a key concern for nursing unions. The Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) agreement with OSU includes provisions related to patient safety and staffing levels, which can indirectly impact workplace safety for nurses. However, the recent complaint implies that more specific measures addressing workplace violence may be necessary.

As this complaint moves forward, it may prompt other healthcare facilities to review and strengthen their own policies regarding workplace violence. The outcome of this case could potentially set precedents for how hospitals and medical centers approach the safety and well-being of their nursing staff.

Nurses, let us know your thoughts in the comments below!