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Nurse bullying and workplace violence are critical issues that impact not only the well-being of nurses but also the quality of patient care.
Introduction
Nurse bullying and workplace violence are serious issues that affect both the well-being of nurses and patient care. The CDC reports that up to 80% of nurses have faced physical assault during their careers, and incidents of violence are often underreported.
In 2023, 6 out of 10 nurses considered leaving their job due to workplace violence, and 8 out of 10 experienced some form of violence in the past year. This article provides essential guidance on recognizing, reporting, and combating bullying and violence to foster a zero-tolerance culture in nursing.
Learning Outcomes
Differentiate Between Nurse Bullying and Nurse Violence: Understand the distinctions between bullying and violence in nursing, recognizing the various forms each can take.
Recognize Negative Effects: Describe the detrimental impact of nurse bullying and violence on both nurses and patients.
Reporting Methods: Learn the appropriate channels and methods for reporting bullying and violence in the workplace.
Legal Rights Awareness: Familiarize yourself with your legal rights as a nurse when reporting workplace violence.
In this Resource:
What is Nurse Bullying?
Nurse bullying, often referred to as “nurses eating their young,” is a harmful practice that has no place in the nursing profession. This behavior, also known as lateral violence or relational aggression, involves repetitive actions aimed at causing distress, harm, or humiliation to another nurse. Examples of bullying include severe micromanagement, name-calling, direct threats, unmanageable or undesirable work assignments, microaggressions, and spreading rumors or gossip. It’s important to note that bullying is not confined to any specific age, gender, or level of experience—every nurse is at risk.
What is Workplace Violence?
Workplace violence in nursing includes any threat or act of physical, verbal, sexual, or psychological violence, as well as harassment or intimidation. This can range from physical assaults and verbal threats to more severe incidents like sexual harassment or even death. Workplace violence is a serious issue that not only jeopardizes the safety of nurses but also disrupts the entire healthcare environment.
The High Price of Bullying
Bullying in nursing leads to higher turnover rates, costing hospitals millions of dollars each year. Studies indicate that each nursing turnover costs the average hospital over $300,000. Beyond the financial implications, bullying negatively impacts nurses by increasing the risk of headaches, anxiety, reduced job satisfaction, more missed days of work, and even suicide. For patients, nurse bullying can lead to decreased quality of care, poorer care team collaboration, and a higher risk of patient safety incidents due to staffing issues.
Recommended Interventions for Nurses
If you experience or witness nurse bullying, it’s important to take action:
Acknowledge the Behavior: Address the behavior directly with the aggressor, if safe to do so, and have a conversation about it.
Report the Incident: Inform your leader or manager about the bullying. If the bullying involves a manager, escalate the issue to your human resources department.
Escalate if Necessary: If the situation does not improve after reporting to your manager, bring the issue to the attention of your director of nursing. If the behavior persists despite reporting at all levels, contact your state board of nursing for further support.
Promote a Zero-Tolerance Culture: Participate in committees that focus on bullying prevention, advocate for no tolerance of bullying in your department, and support colleagues in reporting incidents.
How to Create an Inclusive Environment
Cultivating an inclusive and safe work environment requires proactive efforts:
Be a Role Model: Lead by example and demonstrate anti-bullying behavior.
Speak Up: Address bullying or violence when you see it.
Participate in Education: Join committees that focus on reducing violence and managing bullying.
Share Resources: Work with your nursing manager to disseminate resources for those who have experienced bullying or violence.
Build Community: Foster a sense of belonging on your unit, ensuring everyone feels valued.
Advocate for Communication: Support regular department meetings where staff can voice their concerns and contribute to creating a positive workplace culture.
Legal Protections and Regulations
Many states have legislation requiring workplaces to implement violence prevention programs, which may include annual education, maintaining records of violent events, and having a clear plan for reporting and responding to incidents. For more information on your state’s regulations, click here.
It is illegal for healthcare systems to retaliate against a nurse or healthcare worker for reporting workplace violence or pressing charges. If you experience retaliation, file a report with the National Labor Board.
Resources to Deal with Workplace Violence
If you experience workplace violence, there are several avenues for reporting and seeking support:
Report to Local Healthcare System: Report incidents to your facility's management or safety office.
OSHA and The Joint Commission: File a complaint with OSHA or The Joint Commission.
National Labor Board: If you face retaliation for reporting, you can file a complaint with the National Labor Board.
Advocacy: Advocate for stronger federal laws on workplace violence through organizations like RN Action.
Legal Action: You have the right to press charges against your aggressor by filing a police report with your local law enforcement office.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Contact your EAP for additional support and resources.
Worker’s Compensation: File a claim if you need medical or therapeutic support after an incident.
Key Takeaways
Nurse bullying and workplace violence are serious issues that must be addressed to ensure the safety and well-being of nurses and the quality of patient care. By educating yourself on the proper reporting processes and participating in creating a zero-tolerance culture, you can help build a safer, more inclusive work environment. Remember, you are not alone—numerous resources and legal protections are in place to support you. Let’s work together to create a compassionate and supportive workplace where every nurse feels valued and protected.
Additional Resources
Author Bio
I’m Ashley Zeckmeister, a certified health and wellness coach and registered holistic nurse and nurse coach! I’m passionate about supporting healthcare workers with all things health and wellness, from work-life balance, to self-care, and embodying their most authentic voice. I truly believe that we all have a deep, inner wisdom that can help guide us to reaching our goals, we’ve just lost touch with that part of ourselves from living in such a fast-paced environment. As we learn to slow down, prioritize taking care of ourselves, and listen to our inner wisdom, we cultivate an authenticity that supports us in achieving all of our goals!
Additional Support
If you're seeking additional support on any of these topics, I’m here to help! I offer a complimentary Discovery Call for those interested in coaching. You can easily schedule this on my website. As a special bonus for members of the Society of Future Nurse Anesthetists (SFNA), you'll receive $25 off your first coaching session when you mention your membership. I'm excited to assist you in achieving your health and wellness goals!
Contact Information
Website: heal.me/infinitelotus
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