Factors Related to Intimidation During Oxytocin Administration

Patient's safety and quality are foremost issues in healthcare today and are often adversely influenced by communication and issues of perceived intimidation. Labor and delivery nurses are responsible for managing oxytocin infusions, but disagreements between providers and nurses related to the administration have been shown to cause tension and affect patient's care. The purpose of this study was to survey registered nurses in labor and delivery about perceived intimidation and how intimidation influenced actions and decisions. A total of 913 registered nurses who were members of the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses and identified labor and delivery comprised the sample as their clinical focus. Nurses who met the inclusion criteria were invited to participate in the survey via e-mail invitation. An online survey assessing workplace intimidation by providers while managing oxytocin inductions, as well as demographic information was completed. Participants reported past issues with intimidation that influenced how they administered oxytocin. Nurses reported that past experiences with intimidation influenced their care and that they had been involved with medication errors where intimidation played a role. Organizational factors perceived supportive management, presence of an organizational code of conduct, and environment where collaboration was encouraged were associated with decreased reports of intimidation.