Concept analysis: nurse-to-nurse lateral violence

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Nurse-to-nurse lateral violence (LV) is a pervasive issue within the nursing profession.
• LV leads to significant social, psychological, and physical consequences for nurses.
• It negatively impacts patient outcomes, nursing practice, and professional relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine and analyze the concept of nurse-to-nurse lateral violence (LV).
• To understand the origins and contributing factors of LV in nursing.
• To provide a foundation for future research and clinical interventions.

Main Methods:

• An extensive literature review was conducted.
• Databases searched included Health Source, CINAHL, ProQuest health, and Medical Complete.
• The review aimed to identify agreement, disagreement, and emerging trends in the literature on LV.

Main Results:

• Nurse-to-nurse LV is defined as aggression where dissatisfaction is directed towards another nurse, either overtly or covertly.
• Identified origins of LV include role confusion, oppression, rigid hierarchies, disenfranchising work practices, low self-esteem, perceived powerlessness, anger, and power dynamics.
• The analysis highlights the multifaceted nature of LV and its complex origins.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the origins of LV is essential for developing effective interventions.
• Organizations must actively work to eliminate the antecedents of LV.
• Equipping nurses with skills to combat LV is vital for improving the work environment, patient care, and nurse retention.