Rather than being reactive, healthcare professionals must understand the various reasons workplace violence occurs, according to an article by StatNews. While many attackers turn violent spontaneously due to mental illness, drugs or unexpected news of a loved one's death, others plan attacks beforehand. It's vital that healthcare workers understand the distinction, as there is far less risk involved in attempting to reason with the former. In the meantime, organizations such as the Joint Commission, the Veterans Health Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have all embarked on initiatives to understand and prevent incidents of workplace violence in healthcare. Read the full article at FierceHealthcare