BACKGROUND: Workplace violence (WPV) in healthcare organizations can lead to serious consequences that negatively affect nurses' lives and patient care. There is limited research on the deeper, underlying consequences of WPV for emergency nurses, particularly among emergency nurses in Iran.
METHODS: A qualitative exploratory design was utilized. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with sixteen nurses working in emergency departments in five hospitals in west and east Azerbaijan of Iran. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis.
RESULTS: "Suffering nurses" emerged as a primary theme of underlying consequences of WPV for emergency nurses. Four sub-themes of suffering were revealed: "mental health risks"; "physical health risks"; "threats to professional integrity"; and "threats to social integrity." CONCLUSION: Emergency nurses suffer from consequences following WPV. These consequences may not be addressed by staff health and safety programs, putting nurses at further risk. The findings of this study can help policy makers, healthcare leadership, and managers better understand the consequences of WPV so they can advocate for and establish WPV prevention programs and support for nurses who have experienced WPV. Preventing violence and providing support for nurses will ensure a safe workplace and safer patient care.