Bullying workshops for obstetric trainees: a way forward
Katie Cresswell1, Viswapriya Sivashanmugarajan, Wasim Lodhi
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, North Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK.
The Clinical Teacher
|March 20, 2015
Summary
Trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology face workplace bullying, impacting individuals and the National Health Service (NHS). A practical workshop was developed to raise awareness and promote a positive culture shift to address this issue.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Healthcare Management
- Workplace Psychology
Background:
- Trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology report consistent workplace undermining.
- The high-pressure nature of obstetrics and gynaecology, coupled with suboptimal staffing and high litigation rates, fosters a culture of bullying within the NHS.
- The UK's National Health Service (NHS) faces significant implications from workplace bullying, affecting both individuals and the system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a practical workshop aimed at raising awareness of undermining and harassment among trainees.
- To address the pervasive issue of workplace bullying in the high-pressure field of obstetrics and gynaecology.
- To foster a positive culture shift within the NHS by encouraging professionals to reflect on their behavior.
Main Methods:
- A workshop titled 'Undermining and Harassment: A Practical Workshop for Trainees' was developed.
- Workshop content included defining bullying, analyzing case scenarios, discussing the impact on patient safety, strategies for supporting senior staff exhibiting bullying behavior, assertiveness training, and practical tips.
- Interactive sessions, audiovisual clips, and role-playing were utilized to engage participants.
Main Results:
- Feedback from six workshops and informal focus groups indicated the subject matter was both useful and necessary for trainees.
- The workshops served as practical tools for raising awareness of workplace harassment.
- While not a research project to assess longitudinal impact, initial feedback suggests the workshops were well-received.
Conclusions:
- The workshops successfully aimed to raise awareness of bullying and undermining in the workplace.
- Addressing these issues has serious implications for healthcare professionals, patients, and the NHS.
- The initiative seeks to promote a positive culture shift, encouraging mindful communication and actions among healthcare professionals.
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