Out-Creeping the Creeps? Nurses Get Real About Patient Harassment

When nurse Mali noticed his female coworker shaken after a male patient made inappropriate comments during a catheter procedure, he stepped in to help. Mali not only took over the assignment but responded with an exaggeratedly polite demeanor, greeting the patient’s remarks with unwavering courtesy and a smile. The role reversal—seen by many as “out-creeping” the patient while maintaining professionalism—quickly went viral on TikTok, earning praise from viewers and healthcare colleagues alike.

@nursemali11 Don’t be a creep we are all just trying to do our job don’t make our ladies feel uncomfortable when they are just trying to help out #nursesoftiktok #nursetok #nurselife #nurseproblems #registerednurse #malenurse #fyp #nursetiktok #healthcareworker #foleycatheter #foley #emergencyroom #emergencydepartment #nurses #nursingstudent #storytime ♬ original sound - NurseMali

The Data Nurses Can’t Ignore

Sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior are not isolated incidents in healthcare—research shows they are persistent, systemic problems that some nurses may face regulary. Incidents can originate from patients, visitors, colleagues, or supervisors, affecting nurses in every type of setting. According to a nationwide National Nurses United (NNU) survey published in early 2024, over 81% of nurses reported experiencing some form of workplace violence in 2023, with 33% reporting verbal harassment based on sex or appearance, and nearly 20% reporting inappropriate touching or groping. NNU also found that 45.5% of nurses saw workplace violence rates rise in the past year.

Recent research in the National Library of Medicines highlights the problem’s depth: nearly 70% of female nurses surveyed have been targets of workplace violence at least once in their careers, while 63% of operating room nurses reported sexual harassment in the past year alone. These incidents likely leave lasting impacts on mental health, job satisfaction, and staff retention, and highlight the possibly the urgent need for cultural and systemic change in healthcare.

Why Patient Harassment Matters

While inappropriate behavior from patients is sometimes dismissed as “part of the job,” research shows the consequences can be significant. Harassment likley contributes to nurse burnout, turnover, mental health problems, and possibly even decisions to leave the profession altogether. In some cases, harassment also disrupts patient safety, as it undermines focus and creates unsafe environments for both staff and those receiving care.

What Nurses Should Do If They Face Sexual Harassment

• Know Your Policy
  Most hospitals and health systems have zero-tolerance policies on sexual harassment. These typically cover interactions with patients, visitors, and staff. Nurses should review their institution’s code of conduct and reporting protocols regularly.
  
  

• Seek Immediate Support
  If a situation feels unsafe, it is appropriate to ask a coworker, supervisor, or security officer to step in. Support from colleagues can de-escalate situations and protect the nurse’s well-being.
  
  

• Document Everything
  Writing down details—time, location, what occurred, and who witnessed it—is essential. Documentation strengthens formal reports and helps identify patterns of behavior over time.
  
  

• Report to Management or Human Resources
  Following the chain of command is the first step, but many organizations also allow anonymous reporting. Reporting is not only for the nurse’s protection, but also for the safety of others who might encounter the same individual.
  
  

• Consider Regulatory and Legal Options
  If an employer fails to act, nurses can escalate by contacting their state board of nursing or seeking advice from legal professionals experienced in healthcare workplace law. Some hospitals also offer ombuds services or patient safety hotlines.
  
  

• Take Care of Yourself
  Experiencing harassment can be emotionally taxing. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling, peer support, and professional associations can provide important outlets for support.
  
  

The Bigger Picture: Nurses Deserve Respect

Nursing culture often emphasizes professionalism, patience, and “service with a smile.” But professionalism should never mean accepting harassment or belittling behavior as inevitable. Nurses are entitled to a workplace where respect, safety, and dignity are the standard.

Mali’s viral video captured attention because it offered a creative, non-confrontational way to handle an uncomfortable patient interaction. But while humor may work in the moment, lasting change requires systemic support—clear organizational policies, consistent enforcement, and a culture that does not tolerate harassment in any form.

For nurses, the message is clear: no one should have to endure harassment to provide care. Whether it comes from a patient, family member, or fellow healthcare worker, inappropriate behavior must be addressed directly and consistently. When colleagues step up for each other—as Mali did—they not likely only protect individuals but also reinforce a culture of safety and respect that benefits the entire profession.

🤔Nurses, share your thoughts in the discussion forum below!