Title: Cultivating collaborative healthcare: rethinking nurse-physician workplace violence dynamics in Thailand

Authors: Jutharat Thongsalab; I. Gede Juanamasta; Rapin Polsook

Addresses: Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Surin, Praboromarajchanok Institute, Ministry of Public Health, 320 Lak-Mueang Road, Nai Mueang Sub-district, Mueang District, Surin 32000, Thailand ' STIKes Wira Medika Bali, Jl. Tukad Citarum FF No. 1, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia ' Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University, Borommaratchachonnani Srisataphat Building, Rama I Road, Wangmai Sub-district, Pathumwan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Abstract: The dynamics of workplace violence between nurses and physicians in Thailand compose a significant, complex issue with implications for staff well-being, patient safety, and healthcare system efficacy. This point of view explores the causes of interprofessional violence in Thai healthcare by examining systemic factors such as power imbalances, professional identities, and cultural norms. Rather than attributing blame, the article advocates collaborative solutions fostering mutual respect between nurses and physicians. Drawing from social dominance theory, conflict theory and the workplace violence framework, this perspective encourages reforms to enhance safety, equity, and interprofessional collaboration. Viewed through the lens of a nurse educator and former head nurse manager aware of current events, this article offers insights and practical ideas to foster a respectful, cooperative work environment through targeted reforms and shared understanding.

Keywords: workplace violence; nurse physician relations; interprofessional relations; collaborative healthcare; Thailand; patient safety; conflict theory; self-categorisation theory; social dominance theory; workplace violence framework.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWE.2025.149683

International Journal of Environment, Workplace and Employment, 2025 Vol.9 No.3, pp.216 - 230

Received: 06 Dec 2024
Accepted: 21 Jun 2025
Published online: 10 Nov 2025 *

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