Repeated Cognitive Rehearsal Training: Enhancing Self-Efficacy and Reducing Perceived Workplace Incivility in Novice
Shawna L Horsford1, Margaret M Wichrowski1
1Northwell, New Hyde Park, New York, and Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, New York.
Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing
|July 14, 2026
Summary
Cognitive rehearsal (CR) training helps nurses gain confidence in responding to workplace incivility. Repeated sessions reduced perceived incivility experiences, though knowledge impact was not significant.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Workplace Behavior
- Healthcare Professional Development
Background:
- Nurses frequently encounter or witness workplace incivility.
- Cognitive rehearsal (CR) training is effective for experienced nurses but its impact on novice and advanced beginner nurses is not well-established.
- This study investigated the effectiveness of CR training for early-career nurses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if repeated CR training enhances nurses' knowledge of incivility.
- To assess if CR training reduces nurses' perceived experiences with incivility.
- To evaluate if CR training improves nurses' confidence in responding to incivility.
Main Methods:
- A nonrandomized quasi-experimental design was employed.
- Participants included nurses in fellowship orientation programs.
- Validated surveys were administered at five time points following two in-person CR training sessions.
Main Results:
- Repeated CR training significantly decreased the perceived frequency of incivility experiences (p = .0021).
- Self-efficacy in responding to workplace incivility significantly increased (p = .0084).
- The impact on nurses' knowledge of incivility was not statistically significant (p = .0937).
Conclusions:
- Repeated Cognitive Rehearsal training enhances nurses' confidence and self-efficacy in addressing workplace incivility.
- Continuous training and support are vital for maintaining improvements in nurse confidence and patient care.
- Further research may explore optimal training frequencies and long-term effects.
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