Italy healthcare workers face rising violence and systemic strain

Healthcare professionals in Italy are facing significant challenges regarding safety and systemic organization. Data from the Nursing Up union, based on CEASE-IT research, estimates that approximately one in three nurses experiences physical or verbal violence. For the first half of 2026, this translates to an estimated 48,760 incidents, or roughly 270 cases per day. Experts warn of substantial underreporting, noting a massive gap between official workplace injury records and actual occurrences.

In specific regions, tensions are rising. In Alessandria, hospital management activated anti-violence protocols following threats and verbal aggression in the emergency department. In Naples, unions have called for increased oversight of organizational models to prevent staff burnout and ensure patient safety. Meanwhile, in Messina, concerns have been raised regarding the shortage of support staff (OSS) at the Policlinico G. Martino, which impacts nursing duties.

In the Lazio region, multiple medical unions have expressed alarm over the regional hospital management plan. They argue that the lack of a complete territorial healthcare network is forcing hospitals to rely on emergency measures, such as constant staff reallocation, which risks patient safety and clinical responsibility. The unions are calling for a structural plan for staffing and beds rather than permanent emergency management.