Nursing can be a very humbling career path. In nursing school, you’re constantly told how to do things and being corrected, and not always in the most gracious ways.
And then when you get your big fancy nursing job, you feel like you just went from 8th grade, where you’re on the top of the world, to being a freshmen in a high school at the bottom of the food chain again. It can be very discouraging especially after enduring nursing school.
And sadly, some look at new nurses as prey. After going through it myself, seeing others endure it, and watching it unfold in front of my eyes. You have to learn and know how to deal with it in the moment. And don’t get me wrong, it’s not all nurses. it can be people from different disciplines drinking that hate-orade.
Dealing With Jerks
I have realized that it is all up to you in how you receive it and deal with it. Hear what you want, young nurslings. If someone is being a jerk to you, talking down to you, or telling you how bad you are at something you don’t have to believe it. And just because you think something does not make it true.
You will screw something up. You will do something wrong. You will need to be corrected. And that’s okay. That’s a normal part of growing as a nurse. Anyone that tries to take that opportunity to belittle you well, sucks but also does not need to take over your thoughts/heart/soul.
What you do need to listen to are those patients that tell you that you’re a good nurse, even if you feel like you didn’t do anything right all day. Or those nurses and techs that are thankful for your help. Or those doctors/PA’s/NP’s that told you good job.
It’s really easy to let those negative voices be the loudest ones in your mind. You have to make a conscious effort to hush them and remind yourself of the truth.. that you’re a good nurse, you’re trying your hardest, and that you will do better next time.
What is Bullying
Bullying is a form of repeated, health-harming mistreatment by one person or more against another. It is abusive conduct that is
- Threatening, humiliating, or intimidating
- Work interference sabotage
- Verbal abuse
Following are some Bullying Permutations:
- Doctor or Management Bullying a Nurse
- Nurse Bullying Another Nurse
- Nurse Bullying a Patient
- Patient Bullying a Nurse
- Nurse Bullying Other Healthcare Providers
What to do if You’re Being Bullied
Speak up. If you ever find yourself in a bullying situation, don’t be afraid to speak with your nurse manager. Because she is the only one who can help you to solve this issue.
How to be a Positive Influence
No matter how much you care about your nursing environment, there may be times when it seems that no one cares. There are small things you can do-even if they’re never happened to you before -that will make a big difference.
Try one of these simple actions that let others know that you support a kind, caring nursing environment:
- Be an advocate for the target of a bullying incident. While you don’t need to get involved in the situation, you can redirect the behavior.
- Mentor and friend new nurses on your unit.
- Report bullying and incivility to your supervisor.
- Treat others with kindness, just as you would like to be treated.
- Positive thinking is key. Acknowledge your unit’s actions you want to see.
Ending words
If you feel like you are being bullied, don’t be afraid to seek out help. Bullying can leave people feeling alone and isolated, but finding the right support is a great way to move forward.