BackgroundAcute psychiatric units are found to be stressful working environments because of the nature of illness patients present with.ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine self-reported incidents of physical and verbal violence towards nurses working in acute psychiatric units in Western Cape, South Africa.MethodA questionnaire was used to collect data. Chi-square test was performed to determine association between gender, category and experience of violence. Mann–WhitneyUtest was carried out to determine associations between years of employment and the likelihood of experiencing physical violence and verbal abuse.ResultsOverall physical violence 35 (34.3%) and verbal abuse 83 (83%) incidents. Most female respondents reported both physical violence (74.2%,n= 26) and verbal abuse (72.2%,n= 60), with (56.2%,n= 18) professional nurses reporting physical violence. Years of employment was statistically significantly associated with the likelihood of nurses experiencing physical violence (p= 0.007).ConclusionMost respondents (74.2%,n= 26) were females and they mostly experienced physical violence and verbal abuse while 28.2% (n= 29) were males. Years of service were associated with the likelihood of experiencing physical violence.ContributionThe knowledge gained will add on existing knowledge about the challenge of violence experienced by nurses in the workplace and might have an influence on policymakers.