Bullying and Incivility: An Introduction

by Leslie K. Morris MSN, RN, AMB-BC, NPD-BC.

 

       

 “Unnecessary noise is the most cruel abuse of care which can be inflicted on either the sick or the well”.   - From Nightingale’s Book, “Notes on Nursing” (1859), p. 27

            

A wise woman taught me this truth, “once you see it, you cannot unsee it”. Such a simple, yet profound statement especially when dealing with the sensitive topic of incivility in nursing. Nursing is one of the most trusted and caring professions in our world today. As caregivers, nurses seek to create an environment of healing for those we serve, who are most vulnerable, and who would otherwise be forgotten. Nursing is both a science and an art, that promises to deliver prudent care no matter the threat. However, there is an insidious disease that has stood the test of time among those in practice. I wonder how many nurses have experienced this detriment? Sadly, there are many. The expression, “eating our young” is a popular phrase used in nursing and unfortunately it has historically been tolerated. Instead of building each other up, we often tear each other down. We provide first-rate care to our patients, then turn around and hurt each other. I believe that prevention is crucial and that education around this topic is only part of the solution. I am convinced that early education is an excellent beginning step and assists in recognizing and dealing with incivility in the healthcare setting. The artistry you will see on the pages that follow are from students who attended an educational activity on incivility. These creative reflections are based on their expressions of insights gained from both a survey of varied experiences and the educational activity. Through these reflections, you will be able to feel how intense incivility is and see the harm it can bestow. I wish to leave you with one last thought, I challenge you to help stop the incivility that exists in the nursing profession – if you observe it happening, report it. Be committed to promoting a culture and work environment where incivility is not tolerated and healing is upheld for all.

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With gratitude and wishing you peace always,

Leslie K. Morris MSN, RN, AMB-BC, NPD-BC

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Graduate Nursing Student, The Carol & Odis Peavy School of Nursing, 

University of St. Thomas, Houston, TX, USA

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