Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

The correct answer is 'Reduction in staff turnover rates related to workplace stress'. While all the options presented are relevant to workplace violence prevention, staff turnover rates provide a comprehensive, long-term indicator of the program's effectiveness.

A reduction in staff turnover rates suggests that the work environment has become safer and less stressful, leading to increased job satisfaction and retention. This metric reflects not only a decrease in violent incidents but also improvements in staff perception of safety, support, and overall work culture.

The number of reported violent incidents, while important, may not accurately reflect the program's effectiveness due to potential underreporting or initial increases in reporting due to heightened awareness. Similarly, the percentage of staff completing violence prevention training is an input measure rather than an outcome measure. It doesn't necessarily correlate with reduced violence or improved safety perceptions.

The number of security interventions could be influenced by various factors and might not directly indicate a safer environment. An effective program might actually lead to fewer security interventions as staff become more skilled at de-escalation.

By focusing on staff turnover rates related to workplace stress, healthcare organizations can gauge the holistic impact of their violence prevention efforts on staff well-being, job satisfaction, and the overall safety culture in the emergency department.