FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2025
Columbus, Ohio – Nurses with The Ohio State University Nurses Organization (OSUNO), represented by the Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) and AFT, have filed a safety complaint with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) over the hospital’s failure to adequately address workplace violence affecting nurses and health professionals. Ohio BWC’s Public Employment Risk Reduction Program (PERRP) enforces workplace safety standards for public employers, helping prevent occupational injuries and illnesses.
This action follows the issuance of a hazard letter to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC) by BWC in November 2023, which outlined specific areas requiring improvement to protect staff, including the emergency department.
“Every day, we come to work dedicated to providing exceptional care, but we are increasingly confronted with verbal and physical assaults,” said Amy Pompeii, RN-BC, President of OSUNO. “For years, we’ve raised concerns and asked for solutions, but hospital executives continue to fall short. It’s time to act and prioritize the safety of patients and staff.”
The complaint highlights an alarming December 2024 incident in the emergency department involving a patient armed with a loaded firearm who made death threats against staff. This incident underscores the urgent need for improved security measures and more proactive workplace violence prevention.
“Nurses and health professionals shouldn’t have to fear for their safety while doing their jobs,” said Rick Lucas, BSN, RN, CCRN, ONA President and Executive Director. “When security measures and protocols fail to address these threats effectively, it puts everyone—staff and patients alike—at unnecessary risk.”
The nurses emphasize that addressing workplace violence requires more than just plans on paper. Effective safety protocols, adequate resources such as security personnel, and tools like early weapons screening are essential to creating a secure environment.
“It’s time for real solutions to prevent these situations from escalating,” Pompeii said. “We’re not asking for the impossible—just for the resources and support we need to keep ourselves and our patients safe.”
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About ONA
Formed in 1904, the Ohio Nurses Association is a powerful network of nurses and health professionals. Our mission is to unite and empower nurses and health professionals, championing their rights, promoting professional practice, and advocating for quality care for all patients in Ohio, while fostering a strong and cohesive professional union community. To learn more or to become a member of the Ohio Nurses Association, visit www.ohnurses.org.
Contact: Michelle Day
Director of Communications & Technology
mday@ohnurses.org