Psychological Distress and Workplace Bullying Among Registered Nurses
Online Journal of Issues in Nursing
|November 20, 2016
Summary
Registered nurses experiencing frequent workplace bullying (WPB) report higher psychological distress, including stress, anxiety, and posttraumatic symptoms. Early intervention and nurse empowerment are crucial for addressing WPB in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Workplace bullying (WPB) is a significant issue in healthcare, negatively impacting registered nurses' work environment.
- Previous research indicates adverse effects of WPB on healthcare professionals' well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine differences in psychological distress symptoms among registered nurses based on WPB exposure levels and nurse characteristics.
- To explore the relationship between WPB exposure and symptoms of perceived stress, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory quantitative dominant (QUANT/qual) mixed-method design was employed.
- Data were collected from registered nurses in three Midwestern states.
- Analysis included quantitative measures of WPB exposure and psychological distress, alongside qualitative insights into coping strategies.
Main Results:
- Frequent to daily WPB exposure was significantly associated with increased perceived stress, anxiety, and posttraumatic symptoms.
- Age was found to be a significant factor in the relationship between WPB exposure and posttraumatic stress symptoms.
- Qualitative analysis revealed various strategies employed by nurses post-bullying.
Conclusions:
- Frequent workplace bullying poses a substantial risk to nurses' psychological health.
- Nurse leaders should focus on empowering staff to manage interpersonal conflicts and address bullying effectively.
- Interventions aimed at reducing WPB and supporting affected nurses are essential in healthcare organizations.
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