Workplace bullying: concerns for nurse leaders.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe nurses' experiences with and characteristics related to workplace bullying.

BACKGROUND

Although the concept of workplace bullying is gaining attention, few studies have examined workplace bullying among nurses.

METHODS

This was a descriptive study using a convenience sample of 249 members of the Washington State Emergency Nurses Association. The Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised was used to measure workplace bullying.

RESULTS

Of the sample, 27.3% had experienced workplace bullying in the last 6 months. Most respondents who had been bullied stated that they were bullied by their managers/directors or charge nurses. Workplace bullying was significantly associated with intent to leave one's current job and nursing.

CONCLUSION

In seeking remedies to the problem of workplace bullying, nurse leaders need to focus on why this bullying occurs and on ways to reduce its occurrence. This is a critical issue, since it is linked with nurse attrition.