How to Stop Travel Nurse Bullying

Nurse bullying is a problem that affects many nurses.

Travel Nurses are no exception to this rule. In the case of a Travel Nurse, bullying can be an intensified issue since most Travel Nurses are typically introduced into a fully formed workplace culture. 

Here's the skinny on nurse bullying:

• 18-31% of Nurses have been bullied at work.
• Types of Bullying - Vertical bullying involves a nurse being bullied by a manager or other superior. Horizontal bullying involves a nurse being bullied by a peer or colleague.
• Effects on Patient Safety - In addition to a hostile work enviornment, nurse bullying can also harm patients. Putting nurses under additional pressure distracts and can cause errors on the job.

How Travel Nurses can combat nurse bullying:

• Be Aware - So often a Traveler will just brush off bullying or chalk it up to being the new guy or gal. Be in touch with what’s really going on and remember that you deserve respect on the job.
• Document - Take notes — including dates, names, and times — on how you’re being bullied.
• Report - If a situation can’t be resolved on your own, you should formally report it to hospital administration and/or HR.
• React Properly - The worst thing you can do is retaliate in a bullying fashion, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t defend yourself. It’s a tricky balance to strike, but just be communicative, professional, and honest. Speak up and say, “You are bullying me. Please stop.”
• If You See A Colleague Being Bullied - Observe the situation and make the same notes you would if it were you being bullied. Tell said colleague that you’ve noticed and are willing to provide any support necessary. Don’t be afraid to speak up against bullies. Like the saying goes, “If you see something, say something.” 
• Be a Part of the Solution - At the end of the day, nurse bullying is a part of a hospital’s culture. While you might not be there long as a Traveler, do your best to be a good part of the culture and improve it through your own personal conduct.

* Sources: American Nurses Association, The Joint Commission, Med Surg Nursing  

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