Key contributing factors to preceptor workplace incivility toward learners in nursing: A scoping review

Workplace incivility perpetrated by registered nurses in preceptor roles toward learners (students and graduates) in nursing is a historical and persistent issue that negatively impacts wellbeing and retention. While the consequences of incivility are well documented, the factors driving uncivil behaviours remain poorly understood.

To explore what is known about the contributing factors to workplace incivility exhibited by preceptors toward learners within clinical environments.

A scoping review was conducted guided by Arksey and O'Malley's framework and reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR Guidelines.

Eight databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, Embase, Cochrane, and PsycINFO) and Google Scholar were searched in April 2025 and updated on May 25th, 2026. No date restrictions were applied. Literature published in English that addressed contributing factors to workplace incivility perpetrated by preceptors toward learners in nursing was included. Both grey literature and peer-reviewed publications were considered. A two-stage screening process (titles and abstracts followed by full text) was undertaken using Covidence.

Of the 660 records identified across databases and web-based resources, 17 records were included in the review. Organisational factors and interpersonal dynamics were identified as key drivers of preceptor incivility toward learners in nursing. Hierarchy and power imbalances fostered cultures that normalised incivility. Heavy workloads, burnout, and poor management further exacerbated uncivil behaviours, which were often rationalised as a "rite of passage". Preceptor role perceptions and generational differences also contributed, with leaners frequently role-modelling such uncivil behaviours and unintentionally perpetuating a cycle of incivility.

This scoping review identifies key gaps in understanding workplace incivility perpetrated by preceptors toward learners in nursing. In particular, preceptor perspectives on their own uncivil behaviours remain under-explored. Further research is needed to inform education, intervention strategies, and targeted policy development to meaningfully shift nursing's entrenched culture of incivility.