Hospitals and healthcare facilities are built on compassion and care, but a growing trend is reshaping the workplace for staff at Beaufort Memorial and nationwide: violence against healthcare workers.
Nurses, physicians and frontline workers care for countless patients every day, saving lives, providing comfort, safety and serving the community.
Nationally, these healthcare employees are five times more likely to experience workplace violence injuries than workers in other industries, accounting for nearly 75% of all workplace assaults.
What the Numbers Show
Nearly 70% of hospital workers report experiencing some sort of workplace violence, and healthcare professionals represent almost half of all nonfatal workplace violence injuries in the U.S. – despite making up only 10% of the workforce.
The impact on hospitals is significant. A 2023 survey found that 45.5% of nurses reported an increase in workplace violence from the previous year, and 6 in 10 said they had left or considered leaving a job because of it.
In the middle of a national nursing shortage, workplace violence has become a major driver of burnout and turnover. More than 80% of care providers report that assaults contribute to lost productivity, increased anxiety, longer wait times and reduced clinical focus.
Nearly 70% of hospital workers report experiencing some sort of workplace violence
According to the 2025 Workplace Violence Collaborative Report, at least seven workplace violence incidents occur in South Carolina hospitals daily. Data collected from 48 South Carolina facilities in 2024 showed that 2/3 of staff assaults were committed by adult patients, nearly 68% involved nurses or nursing support staff, and more than half occurred in patient rooms or bathrooms – most frequently between 9 p.m. and 1 a.m.
South Carolina remains one of only three states without enhanced penalties for assaulting a healthcare worker. Beaufort Memorial is actively supporting state legislation – H4763 and S346 – aimed at strengthening protections for healthcare professionals and improving safety across the state’s healthcare system.
“Our nurses, physicians and team members dedicate their lives to caring for others, and they deserve to feel safe at work,” said Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley. “Addressing workplace violence is not just a security priority – it’s critical to supporting our workforce and sustaining high-quality care in our community.”
While advocacy is key, meaningful change also requires action at the local level. Beaufort Memorial has taken a proactive, multi-layered approach to prevention, preparedness and response.
Preparedness Through Training
In Fall 2025, Beaufort Memorial conducted its first active shooter drill, “Operation Rapid Shield,” in partnership with local, regional and state agencies. Held in the ICU at the main hospital, the exercise brought together hospital staff and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, Beaufort Police Department, Beaufort/Port Royal Fire Department, Beaufort County EMS, the Department of Public Health and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (Region 6).
The drill tested staff readiness and reinforced both internal and external communication procedures using the Hospital Incident Command System (HICS). The coordinated response demonstrated the organization’s ability to mobilize quickly, communicate clearly and efficiently and prioritize patient and staff safety in a crisis.
Operation Rapid Shield reflects Beaufort Memorial’s belief that preparation saves lives, and that collaboration with community partners strengthens overall readiness.
Investing in Advanced Security Technology
In April 2025, Beaufort Memorial installed a state-of-the-art weapons detection system in the Pratt Emergency Center. The $150,000 Evolv system, fully funded by the Beaufort Memorial Foundation, enhances security screening while minimizing disruption to patient care.
Unlike traditional metal detectors, the system uses advanced imaging technology to detect and identify potential threats swiftly and safely.
Additionally, Beaufort Memorial has implemented Midmark Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) throughout the main hospital, improving operational efficiency by including asset tracking and improving patient flow and communication – as well as strengthening safety measures.
Staff have access to mobile panic buttons linked to location-identifying technology, allowing security or clinical assistance to respond quickly in the event of an emergency.
Strengthening Internal Oversight and Support
Formed in 2023, the Beaufort Memorial Workplace Violence Committee plays a central role in the organization’s safety strategy. The interdisciplinary committee meets weekly to review incidents, provide follow-up and staff support, evaluate processes and recommend approvements and next steps.
“The committee’s work ensures that workplace violence prevention is not a one-time initiative,” said Shawna Dora, MSN, RN, Vice President of Quality, Risk and Patient Safety at Beaufort Memorial, “but an ongoing organizational priority, grounded in accountability, transparency and continuous improvement.”
Read More: Working as One
A Culture of Safety
Healthcare environments are high traffic, emotionally charged settings where vulnerable patients receive care. Beaufort Memorial is committed to fostering a culture of security and respect, one that protects patients, visitors and the dedicated professionals who care for them.
Through legislative advocacy, enhanced security technology, comprehensive training exercises and structured oversight, Beaufort Memorial is taking decisive steps to reduce risk and strengthen preparedness.
Addressing workplace violence is not only about responding to incidents; it’s about prevention, partnership and protecting the people who make healing possible every day.
By investing in safety for patients, staff and visitors, Beaufort Memorial is helping ensure a stronger, more secure healthcare environment for our community for generations to come.
If working with a healthcare organization that prioritizes employee and patient safety interests you, discover current job openings today.