Objective To identify the barriers and enablers of nurses to the reporting of workplace violence. Methods Using a descriptive qualitative approach, in-depth, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 clinical nurses. Data were subsequently analyzed using the basic thematic approach. Results Three principal themes and seven sub-themes were identified as enablers, including cognitive factors, environmental factors, and management factors. Two principal themes and four sub-themes were determined as barriers, including nurses′ own features and clinical circumstances. Conclusion There are some enablers and barriers faced by nurses reporting workplace violence. Hospital managers should strengthen education and training to improve nurses′ awareness of reporting, create a positive reporting climate and enhance organizational support, so as to encourage nurses to report violence.