Which of the following is a recognized risk factor contributing to workplace violence in healthcare?

High patient-load ratios are a recognized risk factor contributing to workplace violence in healthcare settings. When healthcare workers, such as nurses or emergency room staff, are faced with an overwhelming number of patients, the stress and pressure can lead to increased frustration and agitation among both staff and patients. This environment can heighten the likelihood of confrontations as employees may feel rushed and unable to provide adequate attention to each patient’s needs. Furthermore, a high patient-load can lead to fatigue and burnout among staff, which can further compromise their ability to manage difficult situations effectively, increasing the risk of violent encounters.

In contrast, extended break times, while they may seem beneficial for rest and recovery, are not directly linked to increased violence in the workplace. Mandatory overtime, although it can lead to stress and fatigue, generally doesn't correlate to increasing the chances of violence in the same clear manner as high patient loads. Reduced patient contact might actually decrease the likelihood of violent situations occurring, as there are fewer direct interactions that could escalate into confrontations. Thus, high patient-load ratios stand out as a significant contributor to the risk of workplace violence in healthcare settings.