Aggressive behaviors can manifest themselves in the form of emotional, verbal, or physical abuse, sarcastic comments, unreasonable criticism, ignoring, or withholding important information. Workplace violence leads to communication breakdowns within the healthcare team, which in turn jeopardizes the quality of nursing care and patient safety. The reduced level of job satisfaction of workers in violent environments leads to increased nurse turnover, resulting in staff shortages and reduced quality of healthcare services. Victims of workplace violence report emotional exhaustion, fear of going to work, anxiety and depression; they are often forced to leave their jobs or even the nursing profession. Research indicates that workplace violence often goes unreported; therefore, it is important to implement effective measures on the prevention and elimination of violence in the workplace. Educational programs are essential to promote knowledge and understanding among nurses about workplace violence and strategies for preventing workplace violence. Healthcare organizations should be guided by an established policy that highlights the responsibility of all leaders and employees to be accountable for workplace behavior and implement a procedure to report, document and address incidents of workplace violence. Organizations must oppose horizontal violence, educate employees and promote a safe and healthy work environment for customers and employees