Empowering Healthcare Heroes: Unveiling the Impact of Self‐Efficacy on Combating Outsider Mistreatment—A Systematic Review

Background The healthcare sector is increasingly experiencing a rise in mistreatment from patients and visitors, a trend that has been intensified in recent years. This systematic literature review examines the relationship between outsider mistreatment and self-efficacy, a vital resource that helps professionals cope with socially stressful situations. Method Following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines, 24 quantitative observational and experimental studies, published between 2005 and 2024, were selected from the PsycInfo, PubMed, and Scopus databases through a structured search strategy. Eligibility for inclusion was established based on predefined criteria for both inclusion and exclusion. The methodological quality of the studies and the overall quality of evidence for the review were evaluated using the mixed methods appraisal tool and the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation, respectively. A narrative synthesis approach was employed to analyze and integrate the findings. Results While the direct relationship between self-efficacy and mistreatment remains complex, self-efficacy—whether general or domain-specific—plays a protective role in mitigating the negative effects of outsider mistreatment on healthcare professionals’ well-being in most studies. Interventions focusing on aggression management and enhancing self-efficacy have proven effective, with some studies reporting lasting benefits over time. Conclusion This review represents the first comprehensive examination of the relationship between self-efficacy and outsider mistreatment in healthcare settings, emphasizing its role within a broader resource framework. A multifaceted approach, integrating self-efficacy-enhancing interventions with organizational strategies, is crucial for improving healthcare workers’ well-being. Implications for Nursing Management Experiential training in aggression management and emotional regulation can strengthen nurses’ self-efficacy in handling aggressive patients or visitors. Beyond enforcing zero-tolerance policies and streamlined reporting systems, nursing leadership could provide support networks and debriefing opportunities. Combining personal and organizational strategies helps build a supportive work environment and a more resilient nursing workforce.