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Verbal abuse

AORN Journal, June, 2004 by Diane King

I am writing in response to the article "Assertiveness Training to Prevent Verbal Abuse in the OR" (vol 79, January 2004). I am the nurse manager for a surgical center, and I have found this article very useful.

Over time, verbal abuse in the OR setting has become an increasingly accepted behavior. The medical community has justified this behavior based on increased stress levels in the OR. This type of behavior would not be tolerated in other areas of professional practice. The fact that there are recent research studies that examine the long-term effects of verbal abuse in the OR indicates a decreasing tolerance for this type of behavior. Low morale and high turnover rates, along with a national nursing shortage, do not foster a positive learning environment for new nurses who may be considering a career in the OR.

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The staff members at our surgical center have made every effort to create positive working relationship with other members of the OR team. I am quite confident, however, that we will not completely eliminate poor behavior. Proper assertiveness training, learning to recognize warning signs, and reporting these incidences will play a key role in managing and preventing these difficult moments.

DIANE KING

NURSE MANAGER

SAN ANTONIO, TEX

Health Care Industry

Verbal abuse

AORN Journal, June, 2004 by Diane King

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