Lateral Violence in Nursing: Implications and Strategies for Nurse Educators

Lateral violence among nurses persists as a prevalent problem, contributing to psychological distress, staff turnover, and attrition. Newly graduated nurses are at particular risk for being targets of lateral violence and experiencing its negative sequelae. Preparing student nurses to respond to lateral violence prior to entering the nursing may alter this scenario. A review of the literature was conducted to determine the potential for nursing faculty to change the cycle of lateral violence. Based on this review, we recommend 3 main strategies, specifically for nursing faculty, aimed at reducing incidences of lateral violence and preparing students to manage this phenomenon. First, curricular content can address integrating lateral violence content into simulation experiences and facilitating this knowledge into clinical experiences. Second, codes of conduct should guide behaviors for both students and faculty. Finally, as role models, faculty should be aware of their own behaviors, role model respectful communication, facilitate a courteous academic environment, and develop nurses capable of identifying and appropriately responding to lateral violence.