Workplace Incivility Among OR Nurses: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study.

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Workplace incivility (WPI) is prevalent in perioperative settings.
• WPI negatively impacts nurse well-being, job performance, and patient safety.
• The COVID-19 pandemic intensified WPI experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the lived experience of WPI among RN circulators.
• To understand the essential structure of WPI during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify strategies for addressing WPI in perioperative environments.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive phenomenological methods were employed.
• Fifteen RN circulators in the southeastern US were interviewed.
• Interview transcripts were coded to identify themes and subthemes.

Main Results:

• Three core themes emerged: enduring incivility as an individualized test, COVID-19 as an accelerant for WPI, and addressing WPI through accountability, communication, and education.
• RN circulators experienced WPI as a significant challenge during the pandemic.
• Effective strategies for mitigating WPI involve systemic approaches.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need to address WPI in the operating room (OR).
• Findings can guide healthcare professionals in fostering a culture of civility.
• Implementing accountability, communication, and education is crucial for improving the work environment.