Combating Nursing Workplace Bullying: Strategies for Nurses and Nurse Leaders

Nursing is a profession that demands compassion, dedication, and teamwork. However, the workplace can sometimes breed toxic environments, characterized by nurse bullying. This phenomenon is not limited to any specific experience level and can have severe consequences on the mental health and well-being of nurses. While there is no single solution, understanding and applying appropriate measures can significantly combat this issue.

Understanding the Scale of the Problem

Bullying in the nursing profession is a significant concern, particularly among new graduates. According to a report by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 21% of nurses and nursing students admitted to experiencing physical assault, while over 50% reported being verbally abused in a 12-month period. Another study revealed that over 30% of new nurses reported experiencing bullying.

Impacts of Workplace Bullying on New Nurses

The impact of such bullying can be devastating. New nurses who experience it might face frequent callouts, a departure from their assigned unit, or even leaving the profession altogether. Psychological effects such as depression, anxiety, and poor mental health often manifest, affecting their communication skills and ability to work effectively within a team.

The Cultural Aspect of Nurse Bullying

The culture of nurse bullying is deeply rooted in the hierarchical nature of nursing practice. Phrases like "eating their young" are still prevalent, indicating a tradition of experienced nurses intimidating or harassing newer members. This issue has been well-documented since the 1970s, with literature reviews tracing the cause back to:

Misuse of power Structural constraints Corporatization of healthcare Divisions within the ranks of nurses and doctors

New nurses often experience higher incidences of bullying during the first three months after receiving their licenses. This phenomenon is seen as a rite of passage, indicating a cultural norm against newly licensed nurses.

Driving Forces Behind Nurse Bullying

From a psychological perspective, fear plays a significant role in nurse bullying. Brown, a professional in the field, suggests that fear of appearing incompetent, lack of teamwork, lack of respect for nursing coworkers, and stressful working conditions are among the most significant factors contributing to nurse bullying.

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To effectively combat nurse bullying, both new nurses and nurse leaders must take proactive steps. For new nurses, the following recommendations are paramount:

If you witness bullying, address it directly with the bully if it is safe to do so. Utilize the facility's chain of command, starting with the assistant nurse manager, nurse educator, or nurse manager. If the bullying comes from a manager, report it to human resources. If the bullying is severe and consistent, escalate the issue to the director of nursing or the state board of nursing.

Nurse leaders, on the other hand, have a critical role in supporting their nurses' mental health and fostering a safe environment. Here are actionable recommendations for nurse leaders:

Identify and address bullies immediately. Encourage nurses, especially new ones, to report bullying behavior. Implement a system for reporting bullying with a designated person to follow up. Create a mentorship program, particularly for new nurses, to provide guidance and support. Establish a culture of zero tolerance for bullying through accountability.

Conclusion

Bullying in the nursing profession is a complex issue that affects new and experienced nurses alike. By acknowledging and addressing the problem, nurse leaders can play a crucial role in cultivating a workplace culture of respect and safety. Understanding the driving forces behind this phenomenon and taking proactive steps can help create a more nurturing and collaborative environment for all nurses, ensuring they can focus on delivering compassionate care to their patients.