Why Are Nurses Still Bullying Each Other? Let’s Talk Toxic Nursing Culture
Podcast Episode
"Nurses eat their young"—a phrase many in the profession have heard, and too many have experienced. What might sound like a cynical joke reflects a painful reality: bullying in nursing is common, normalized, and deeply harmful. Instead of fostering growth, some seasoned nurses create environments that undermine and alienate new staff. The consequences are far-reaching: 60% of new nurses leave their first job within six months due to negative behavior from coworkers. This toxic culture can lead to a poor work environment, increased risk to patients, and lower patient satisfaction scores.
This harsh reality was the focus of a recent episode of Nurse Converse, where host Jeri Ford welcomed back trauma-informed therapist Danielle Palomares. Together, they explored the roots of toxic nursing culture, its emotional and physical toll, and how both individuals and institutions can begin to shift the culture.
Why Nurse Bullying Happens
1. Hierarchical Structures
The healthcare system operates within a strict hierarchy, which can sometimes enable power imbalances. Charge nurses, preceptors, and experienced staff may misuse their positions, consciously or not, creating an atmosphere of intimidation or exclusion.
2. Generational Clashes
Younger nurses, especially Gen Z, often enter the profession with a focus on collaboration and well-being. However, they may encounter resistance from older nurses who endured harsher work environments and expect others to "tough it out."
3. Workplace Stress and Trauma
Long hours, high patient loads, and repeated exposure to trauma can lead to emotional exhaustion and compassion fatigue. When left unaddressed, this stress can manifest as irritability or aggression, directed at coworkers.
How It Manifests
Nurse bullying often shows up in subtle but damaging ways:
- Condescending language or tone from senior staff
- Exclusion from critical team discussions
- Undue criticism, particularly during preceptorships
- Rumination and second-guessing after interactions
These behaviors are especially damaging during a nurse's early career, when confidence is still being built. Many new nurses describe the experience as "hazing," a term that points to targeted and repeated mistreatment.
The Fallout: Why This Matters
1. High Turnover
Hospitals face $4 to $7 million annually in turnover costs due to nurse attrition linked to toxic work environments.
2. Compromised Patient Care
When nurses are distracted by interpersonal conflict, patient safety suffers. Lower patient satisfaction scores and increased clinical errors have both been linked to poor team dynamics.
3. Mental and Physical Toll
Nurses experiencing bullying report symptoms such as:
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Anxiety and depression
These symptoms reflect the emotional dysregulation that comes from feeling unsafe or unsupported at work.
Strategies for Change
Organizational Level
- Policy enforcement: Clear anti-bullying policies and reporting mechanisms
- Training: Equip staff and leaders with communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Supportive leadership: Hold those in power accountable for creating a positive work culture
Individual Level
- Seek support: Connect with peers who provide encouragement
- Reframe: Recognize that bullying behaviors often reflect the perpetrator's issues
- Consider therapy: Trauma-informed care can help nurses manage the impact of toxic environments
Addressing nurse-on-nurse bullying is crucial for the well-being of healthcare professionals and the safety of patients. By acknowledging the problem and implementing systemic changes, the nursing community can foster a more supportive and respectful work environment.
Connect with Jeri on social media:
- Instagram: @jerilynn_89
- TikTok: @jerilynn_89
