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Tracking shame and humiliation in Accident and Emergency
Karen Sanders1, Stephen Pattison, Brian Hurwitz
1School of Philosophy, Theology and Religion, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
Summary
Shame and humiliation threaten healthcare professionals' integrity and moral agency, particularly in Accident and Emergency departments. This can negatively impact nurses and patient care due to performance pressures.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Ethics
- Nursing Studies
- Organizational Psychology
Background:
- Shame and humiliation pose significant risks to personal and professional integrity in healthcare.
- Contemporary healthcare settings, especially Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments, may foster environments conducive to these negative experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore shame and humiliation as threats to moral agency and integrity in healthcare.
- To analyze the dynamics of shame and humiliation within a British National Health Service Accident and Emergency setting.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative approach utilizing a personal narrative from a nurse working in an A&E department.
- Critical reflection and commentary on the narrative, informed by theoretical insights into shame and humiliation.
Main Results:
- A&E departments are identified as potential sites for shame and humiliation dynamics.
- Externally imposed time targets and top-down management exacerbate these issues, potentially eroding nurses' professional competence, responsibility, and integrity.
Conclusions:
- The identified dynamics in A&E settings have implications for the broader organization and provision of healthcare.
- Addressing shame and humiliation is crucial for maintaining nurses' well-being, professional integrity, and quality of patient care.
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