Sexual Harassment of Acute Care Nurses by Patients in Switzerland: A Cross‐Sectional Study Examining Nurses' Problems and Needs

Aim(s)

To explore acute care nurses' problems and needs related to sexual harassment by patients and its prevention in the German‐speaking part of Switzerland.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was used.

Methods

An online survey was conducted between June 2025 and February 2026 among nurses from three acute care organisations using a total population sampling strategy. The survey comprised items adapted from established instruments and study‐specific items assessing (1) nurses' problems related to sexual harassment by patients and its prevention (i.e., prevalence, perceived negative consequences, relevant influencing factors and existing preventive measures) and (2) nurses' needs for future actions (i.e., perceived necessity and preferences regarding future preventive interventions). Data were analysed descriptively.

Results

Data were provided by 265 nurses (response rate: 16.9%). Most participants were female and worked as registered nurses in inpatient acute care wards. Overall, 89.1% reported experiencing at least one form of sexual harassment by patients in the past 12 months, with verbal harassment being the most frequent type. Of those affected, 57.6% reported at least one negative consequence, with anger, shame, and deterioration of the relationship with patients being the most common. Among influencing factors, nurses agreed least with statements reflecting familiarity with internal organisational guidelines and reporting procedures, whereas they agreed most that a harassment‐free environment contributes to a good working atmosphere and that they can independently recognise types of sexual harassment. Many nurses were unsure whether measures against sexual harassment existed within their organisation. More than half reported a need for greater organisational action, with support from supervisors, reporting instruments and clear guidelines being the most preferred interventions.

Conclusion

Sexual harassment of nurses by patients is frequent and negatively affects nurses and nurse–patient relationships. Addressing this issue requires interventions at multiple levels, with organisational‐level interventions being among the most strongly preferred by nurses.

Implications for the Profession

What problem did the study address?

Sexual harassment by patients is a prevalent workplace issue in nursing and is associated with negative consequences for nurses, yet tailored interventions addressing this problem across different levels remain limited.